Even though the Port of Oakland has faced a reduction in vessel services, according to data released on 17 September, the port has seen an increase in import volume reaching 97,850 TEU in August 2021.
The new figures sees an increase of 1.6% compared to the same period in 2020.
According to a statement from Port of Oakland, August 2021 has also seen a 40% drop in the number of container ships calling at the port.
Some 68 ships arrived in August compared to 113 the previous year.
“We’re pleased to see that imports continued strong, despite the challenges ports faced earlier this year,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director, Bryan Brandes.
“We’ve regained operating efficiency and we’re prepared for continued strength in the import market.”
Import volume is expected to continue to grow in the coming months through the peak season of the port industry.
Expecting cargo throughput to grow, in July 2021, the port outlined infrastructure upgrades it needed to tackle to handle growing cargo volumes.
Some improvements that were ongoing or planned included:
- Additional International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) workers being trained.
- The completion of a land use study, transportation study and electrical infrastructure study (to support its seaport path to zero emissions).
- Strategic planning for the Port of Oakland Maritime Division to guide the division for its long-term, future growth.
