Port ranks number one for refrigerated exports, supports $8.5 billion in ag exports
Oakland, Calif. – November 19, 2024: The Port of Oakland continues to be one of the most important gateways for U.S. agricultural products. The Port exported 235,899 TEUs (twenty-foot containers) of agricultural commodities as of October 2024, totaling nearly $8.5 billion. Oakland ranks number one by TEU volume in international refrigerated (reefer) export trade among United States ports.
“The Port of Oakland is a major international gateway for California’s and the nation’s farmers,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director Bryan Brandes. “Agricultural exports are especially important commodities for our Port’s business. In any given year, agricultural products comprise between 37% and 45% of total exports from Oakland.”
Oakland has ranked first among all U.S. ports in international reefer export TEUs for seven consecutive years. The total commercial value of reefer exports through Oakland reached $7 billion in 2023. The Port and its partners have made substantial investments in facilities for ag and refrigerated products in the last seven years. These investments, including Cool Port and PCC Logistics warehouses, have paved the way for greatly expanding the transportation of agricultural, refrigerated and frozen products through the Port.
Top Oakland Seaport export categories include:
| Category | Volume (TEUs) | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Edible Fruits and Nuts | 90,461 TEUs | $3.4 billion |
| Frozen Proteins | 49,552 TEUs | $2.95 billion |
| Dairy Products | 19,316 TEUs | $680 million |
| Oil & Seeds | 16,264 TEUs | $274 million |
| Wine, Spirits, Beverages | 15,751 TEUs | $467 million |
| Cereals | 13,900 TEUs | $212 million |
| Prep Vegetables, Fruit, Nuts, Other | 11,822 TEUs | $229 million |
| Sugars and Sugar Confectionary | 11,305 TEUs | $125 million |
| Edible Vegetables, Roots & Tubers | 4,107 TEUs | $84 million |
| Prep Cereal, Flour, Starch | 3,421 TEUs | $52 million |
The Oakland Seaport’s proximity to the California Central Valley, its ocean carrier services that depart directly for Asia, and its on-site cold storage infrastructure support Oakland’s position as an export powerhouse for the United States. Ninety percent of the region’s agricultural products pass through the Port’s marine terminals heading to markets overseas.
About the Port of Oakland
The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits and environmental innovation, as the Port decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports 98,345 jobs in the region and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees OAK Airport, the Oakland Seaport and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port of Oakland is Everyone’s Port! Connect with the Port of Oakland and OAK Airport through Facebook and Twitter, or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
Media Contacts
Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Manager
(510) 627-1193
Contact Marilyn