The Port of Philadelphia (PhilaPort) has seen double-digit growth in the container sector and overall port tonnage in 2021.
In 2021, the port processed a total of 739,323 TEU, an increase of 15 per cent compared to 640,799 TEU in 2020. Both imports and exports grew significantly in the year, rising 16 per cent and 15 per cent respectively.
Overall port tonnage year-to-date volumes grew 10 per cent to 7,062,523 metric tons, smashing the previous record set back in 2017 at 6,868,747 metric tons.
“It has been an interesting year full of challenges and opportunities,” said Jeff Theobald, PhilaPort Executive Director and CEO.
“Not only did we surge in container volumes, but some beneficial cargo owners shifted to breakbulk shipments. PhilaPort is one of the only US ports that has several facilities that are purpose-built to handle breakbulk.”
One highlight from 2021 saw PhilaPort selected by the US Department of Transportation to receive a $49 million grant from the 2021 Infrastructure for Rebuilding America (INFRA) programme.
In a statement, the port said the grant funds will be used to provide gap funding for the development of a $130 million new multi-use berth at Southport.
In March, the port also broke ground on the new PhilaPort Distribution Center as part of its plans to expand regional trade and increase its status as a supply chain hub.
The $42 million, 201,621 square foot building is a critical step in the development of the Port’s Packer Avenue Marine Terminal, the region’s main container terminal.
