The Port of Melbourne demonstrated growth in August 2025, processing 285,000 TEU in total container trade, representing an 8.7% increase compared to August 2024.
This growth translates to an additional 22,700 TEU year-on-year, reinforcing Melbourne’s position as a critical gateway for Australia’s international trade.
Full imports excluding Bass Strait traffic emerged as the primary growth driver, reaching 115,000 TEU in August 2025, a substantial 9.4% increase (+9,900 TEU) compared to the same period last year.
This robust import performance indicates sustained consumer demand and business confidence in the Australian market.
Conversely, full exports excluding Bass Strait experienced a 4.8% decline, totaling 56,000 TEU compared to August 2024.
This 2,800 TEU reduction reflects ongoing challenges in Australia’s export sector, potentially influenced by global economic conditions and competitive pressures in key international markets.
Transhipment activities excluding Bass Strait demonstrated strong performance with 14,000 TEU processed, marking a 16.4% increase (+2,000 TEU) year-on-year.
Bass Strait operations maintained steady growth at 19,000 TEU, representing a 2.5% increase (+500 TEU) compared to August 2024, reflecting consistent domestic trade flows between mainland Australia and Tasmania.
Empty container handling reached 81,000 TEU in August 2025, registering the most substantial growth rate at 19.5% (+13,100 TEU) year-on-year.
This significant increase in empty container movements typically indicates strong import demand requiring repositioning of containers for future export shipments, and may also reflect ongoing global supply chain adjustments.
However, the persistent decline in export volumes warrants attention, as it may indicate structural challenges in Australia’s export competitiveness or reflect shifting global trade patterns.
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