The decline was mainly attributable to a 17% reduction in the number of empty containers handled, as loaded exports, which mainly comprise chemicals and resins, continued to grow, being up more than 10% year-on-year at the end of August. Loaded import containers have, though, fallen as the port was affected by slow destocking of US warehouses. Consumers are still cautious with their spending patterns as a result of high inflation.

Overall, Port Houston handled 2.51M TEU in the first eight months of the year, down about 4% on 2022’s year-on-year total, which was a record trading performance for the port.

“After a record year in 2022, we were prepared to see a slight dip in import loads and export empty containers this year,” explained Roger Guenther, executive director at Port Houston. “That said, we know the outlook is bright. The Texas economy is the 8th largest in the world and Port Houston is a vital gateway to millions of consumers. We are ensuring the fluidity of this gateway for the future by investing now in key infrastructure enhancements.”

The port recently took delivery of three super post-panamax STS cranes from ZPMC capable of handling 15,000 TEU neo-panamax ships for use at Bayport Container Termina,l where its sixth berth will soon be commissioned.

Work also continues as scheduled on the Houston Ship Channel Expansion, known as Project 11. “This critical project will benefit all who move cargo along the channel by increasing safety and efficiency, and it will help secure jobs in our region,” said Guenther. “Ships are already seeing advantages of the completion of Project 11’s Segment 1A, from Bolivar to Redfish, including reduced daylight restrictions.”