Newcastle Port Corporation chief executive officer Gary Webb said the record confirmed Newcastle as the world’s largest coal export port with more than 77.7Mt shipped during 2004-05, an increase of 12,000t on the previous financial year.
Grain exports also increased significantly during the year with nearly 1.78Mt being shipped, up nearly 989,000t.
“The overall record shows the port’s business plan is on track and that the port is operating efficiently,” said Webb.
Other highlights from the 2004-05 figures include:
Iron/Steel imports of 289,000t (up nearly 115,000t)
Japan was the major trade destination with 55% of exports
Total number of ship movements, 3205
Webb said the record amounted to about $A7 billion of trade.
“Our core business is coal - a critical export for the state and national economy – but the port is continuing to grow and diversify,” he said.
