Pratik Bijlani –
In 2024, the Port of Long Beach has shattered its previous container volume records, with an impressive 9.6 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) handled, surpassing the pandemic-driven record set in 2021. This achievement comes after six consecutive months of record-breaking cargo volumes, with November marking the busiest month in the port’s history. During this period, the port handled 884,154 TEUs, a 20.9% increase from the previous year, surpassing the November 2020 record by 12.8%.
Imports at the Port of Long Beach grew by 21.8%, reaching 432,823 TEUs, while exports rose 9.5% to 119,083 TEUs. Empty containers also saw a 24.5% rise, totalling 332,250 TEUs. This growth has been largely driven by strong consumer demand and retailers utilizing Long Beach to mitigate potential disruptions from labour negotiations at other U.S. ports.
Despite the surge in cargo, the port has successfully avoided congestion and disruptions, maintaining smooth operations. Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, and Harbor Commission President Bonnie Lowenthal commended the dedication of the workforce and terminal operators, especially during the holiday season. The port has handled 8.79 million TEUs in the first 11 months of 2024, a 20.2% year-over-year increase, with six consecutive months of growth.
Beyond impressive cargo records, the Port of Long Beach continues to advance its environmental goals. The Green Port Policy, introduced in 2005, has driven a 92% reduction in diesel emissions, a 71% decrease in nitrogen oxides, and a 98% drop in sulphur oxides. Looking to the future, the port is developing “America’s Green Gateway” and a pioneering “Tri-gen” system in partnership with Toyota, and preparing for the Pier Wind terminal project, expected to generate $8 billion in labour income and $14.5 billion in economic output by 2045.
Marex Media