Port Saint John sees double-digit cargo increases

Port Saint John has seen cargo tonnage hit double digits increase so far this year.

Tonnage at the port in the first three quarters of 2021 is 19 percent higher than over the same period in 2020. The first three quarters of 2020 saw 18.6 million tonnes of cargo, with 2021 seeing 22.2 million tonnes by the end of September.

In the container sector, both TEUs and tonnage are experiencing year-over-year increases. As of the end of September, the container tonnage moved via Port Saint John is six percent higher than 2020. This is the fifth consecutive year of growth in the container sector at Port Saint John.

Development projects

The port reports that several development projects are contributing to its ability to increase throughout.

The $205 million West Side Modernization Project is due to be completed in 2023. It is funded in partnership with the Government of Canada, Province of New Brunswick, and Port Saint John.

CP Rail’s East Coast Advantage strategy and rail services through acquisition and improvement of the former CMQR line in the State of Maine solidifies Port Saint John as the only Atlantic Canadian port with two Class I national rail providers.

HapagLloyd’s began regular container service, joining MSC and CMA CGM as regular container service providers at the Port.

“We are focused on growth in the container sector together with our terminal operator DP World, who are blending their global reach and influence with the benefits of our West Side Modernization Project to achieve the common objective of sustainable growth. Continuing to build strong foundations with our partners in the rail and shipping sector is another essential component of supply chain innovation as we continue to move forward in modernizing this Port,” said Chris Hall, interim president and CEO of Port Saint John.

Bulk cargo

In other cargo sectors, dry bulk cargo is experiencing a year-to-date increase of 128 percent. Potash and recycled metals are driving this increase. Potash increased from 444,550 tonnes at the end of September 2020 to 1.25 million tonnes at the end of September 2021. At the end of September 2020 the port had moved 147,230 tonnes of recycled metals. At the end of September 2021 the tonnage moved was 234,989 tonnes.

The liquid bulk sector is also experiencing a year-over-year increase of 16 percent over 2020.

Port Saint John is Canada’s Atlantic Canada’s largest port by tonnage, handlong dry and liquid bulk, break bulk, containers, and cruise ships.