The Port of Vancouver has handled a record 85 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in the first six months of 2025, a 13 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
Growth was driven by rising exports of Canadian crude oil, canola oil, grain, potash, and coal to diverse global markets amid a challenging geopolitical backdrop.
Port terminals processed nearly 20 per cent more international trade year-on-year (YoY).
Container volumes remained stable, while automotive imports eased slightly following record performances in 2024.
Crude oil exports surged 365 per cent to nearly 12 MMT, aided by Trans Mountain’s expanded pipeline and terminal, with around 60 per cent destined for China.
Canola oil exports increased 72 per cent to 0.7 MMT, supported by expanding markets across Europe, Asia, and Latin America, offsetting lower demand from the US and China.
Bulk grain exports grew 8 per cent, including wheat up 16 per cent and canola seed 12 per cent, with new markets in Japan, Mexico, and Europe.
Potash exports rose 26 per cent to near-record levels, sulphur increased 5 per cent, and coal declined 2 per cent.
Container traffic reached 1.88 million TEUs, a 6 per cent rise on mid-2024, the second-highest mid-year total on record.
The port is advancing towards a final investment decision on Roberts Bank Terminal 2, which is expected to unlock an additional $100 billion annually in West Coast trade capacity .
Peter Xotta, President and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, said: “As Canadians navigate a moment in time like no other, I want to acknowledge the port community and our supply chain partners for rising to the occasion and moving record trade volumes so far this year.
“For decades, and prior to tariff threats, along with our partners we’ve been working hard to grow trade capacity to meet demand. Today, our growth plans and partnerships are purpose built to help Canada rise to the occasion and get made-in-Canada products to more customers.”
In March, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority released its annual statistics, which revealed a record 158 MMT of cargo flowed through the port in 2024.
