Pilbara Ports hits record 67.9Mt throughput in January

February 17, 2026

Pilbara Ports has delivered a total monthly throughput of 67.9 million tonnes (Mt) for January 2026.

This throughput is a 12 per cent increase compared to January 2025 and marks the highest January on record. This figure can be attributed to a series of targeted operational changes implemented at the Port of Port Hedland in recent months.

Operational changes included revised vessel movement guidelines for ebb-tide departures, creating sailing opportunities for an additional 10 large vessels.

Together with ongoing improvements to Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC), these changes have enabled vessels to utilise available sailing windows, safely maximise cargo carriage and contribute to increased overall shipping volumes.

The Port of Port Hedland achieved a monthly throughput of 50Mt, of which 49.2Mt was iron ore exports. This was a seven per cent increase of total throughput compared to January 2025.

Imports through the Port of Port Hedland totalled 220,000 tonnes, an increase of 60 per cent compared to January 2025.

READ: Pilbara Ports throughput slips 2 per cent in November 2025

The Port of Dampier delivered a total throughput of 14.1Mt, a 19 per cent increase from January 2025.

Imports through the Port of Dampier totalled 122,000 tonnes, an increase of 6 per cent from January 2025. Several factors influence the fluctuation of throughput, including changes in market conditions, port maintenance operations and proponent needs.

Last month, Pilbara Ports awarded a contract for the design and construction of the Dampier Link Bridge, which forms part of the Dampier Cargo Wharf Projects and will deliver a multi-user facility that expands the service capability of the Port of Dampier.