THE Port of Oakland ended 2023 with a total of 2,065,709 TEU passing through the Port, down 11.6 per cent from 2,337,607 TEU in 2022, reported the American Journal of Transportation.

But west coast ports enjoyed an increase in cargo destined to access the Panama Canal, but decided against this to avoid the drought that limited shipping in the waterway.

Laden containers declined 10.1 per cent, registering 1,574,444 TEU in 2023, in contrast to 1,752,169 TEU in 2022, said the port authority.

Empties dropped nine per cent, with 12,210 TEU transiting port facilities in December 2023, versus 13,419 TEU in December 2022. Empty exports declined 15.9 per cent, handling 21,655 TEUs in December 2022, compared to 25,741 TEUs in December 2022.

Laden imports rose 16.4 per cent, moving 76,347 TEU in December 2023, compared to 65,566 TEU in December 2022. This is the highest monthly total since July 2023.

Laden exports also climbed 12.9 per cent, registering 65,801 TEU in December 2023 in contrast to 58,302 TEU in December 2022.

Said Oakland maritime director Bryan Brandes: "2023 finished strong. Carrier on-time performance has improved importer confidence and provided valuable vessel space for our agriculture exporters to move their products from Oakland."

He said he expected a continued rebound in 2024 as the port moved on with plans in modernizing the port and reducing emissions from our maritime operations.