Oakland, Calif. – March 14, 2018: Port of Oakland containerized import volume increased 14.9 percent last month, according to data released today. The Port said February container volume grew in all categories, setting records along the way. Oakland’s performance follows release of a new 5-year strategic plan calling for record cargo volume annually through 2022.
“A lot can happen in an uncertain trade environment, but we’re off to an encouraging start to 2018,” said Port of Oakland Executive Director Chris Lytle. “There’ll be challenges along the way but we still see steady cargo growth into the future.”
The Port adopted a strategic plan this month projecting eight percent cargo growth in the next five years. Here’s how February’s totals fit the forecast:
• Oakland handled the equivalent of 73,666 20-foot import containers, the highest February total in its 91-year history.
• Export volume increased 1.8 percent, the third consecutive month of export growth in Oakland.
• Total volume – including imports, exports and empty boxes – grew 7.6 percent to 188,175 containers, another February record.
The Port said continuing strength in U.S. consumer spending helped drive its import business. It advised that March volume could dip due to post-Lunar New Year factory holidays in Asia, Oakland’s primary market.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port’s 5-year strategic plan – Growth with Care – pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
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