Port of Vancouver sees record cargo volumes in 2024

A record 158 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo moved through the Port of Vancouver in 2024, a five per cent increase from the previous year, according to annual statistics released by the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority.

“The Port of Vancouver continues to drive Canadian prosperity—enabling seamless trade with up to 170 nations across the globe and supporting countless well-paying family jobs across the nation,” said Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the port authority.

The bulk sector led the growth, with an eight per cent increase to 117.9 MMT, driven by record liquid bulk exports, which surged 203 per cent to 17.1 MMT. Petroleum exports nearly quadrupled to 15 MMT following the expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline and Westridge terminal, allowing increased exports to Asia. Canola oil exports also almost doubled to 0.9 MMT.

Canadian grain exports rose one per cent to 29 MMT, while fertilizer and coal exports remained stable at 12 MMT and 42 MMT, respectively.

“Trans Mountain’s expansion coming into operation last May was a significant milestone for Canada and the port—adding export capacity and opening up new opportunities for Canadian producers,” Xotta said. “More than half of crude oil exports through the port since May went to Indo-Pacific markets.”

The auto sector also set a record, handling 470,000 vehicles, as demand for new vehicles surged in Canada. Nearly all Asian-manufactured vehicle imports to Canada arrive through the Port of Vancouver, where capacity was expanded at the Annacis Auto Terminal.

Container trade rebounded, with volumes rising 11 per cent to 3.47 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking a return to pre-pandemic growth trends. Imports increased 14 per cent, while exports climbed five per cent. Disruptions to the Red Sea trade route contributed to increased container volumes shifting to Canada’s West Coast.

“The strength of our gateway shone bright last year with the port moving record volumes despite a challenging environment that included numerous disruptions,” Xotta said. “I want to acknowledge port operators and our supply chain partners for their unwavering dedication to serving Canada and its trade needs.”

The port said challenges in 2024 included climate change impacts, geopolitical tensions and labour disputes. Despite these obstacles, 80 per cent of the port’s international trade involved Canadian goods moving beyond the U.S.

Key infrastructure projects included expanding Active Vessel Traffic Management in Burrard Inlet, modernizing container handling at Global Container Terminal’s Vanterm and launching electric tugs to reduce emissions. The port authority also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Hamburg Port Authority in Germany to collaborate on sustainability and digital innovation.

“The Port of Vancouver stands ready to support efforts to diversify Canada’s international trade and build a strong, resilient national economy,” Xotta said. “We will continue partnering with governments and industry to plan and deliver the long-term capacity needed to support trade through the gateway—in support of all Canadians.”