THE Port of Long Beach announced a 14.7 per cent year on year increase in container throughput for October with dockworkers and terminal operators handling 755,150 TEU.

Imports increased 23.6 per cent to 363,300 TEU and exports decreased 24.8 per cent to 90,073 TEU. Empty containers moved through the port grew 23.3 per cent to 301,777 TEU.

The port moved 6.57 million TEU during the first 10 months of 2023, down 17.8 per cent from the same period last year, according to London's Port Technology.

Cargo flows this year have been on pace with pre-pandemic levels, when the Port of Long Beach moved more than 6.36 million TEU through October 2019.

"Cargo is rebounding and we are continuing to collaborate with our industry partners to recapture market share and invest in infrastructure that will position us for future growth," said Port of Long Beach CEO, Mario Cordero.

"We are anticipating moderate growth through the rest of the year as retailers continue to stock shelves for the winter holidays."

"We appreciate the hard work of our terminal operators, truckers, dockworkers and all of our supply chain partners who keep the goods moving through our port and delivered to our communities, region, state and nation," said Long Beach Harbour Commission president, Bobby Olvera Jr.

"As we are closing out 2023, we are excited for 2024 and continuing to deliver top-notch customer service while being sustainable and a good community partner."

Earlier this month, the Port of Long Beach released a draft report examining the environmental impacts of a proposed project by World Oil Terminals.

More recently, the US Department of Transportation announced a US$52.6 million grant to modernize critical on-dock rail capabilities and improve several key roadways aimed at speeding the flow of cargo through the Port of Long Beach.

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