Cargo traffic at the Port of New Orleans rose in the first half of 2025, fueled by stronger trade with Latin America and improvements in shipping reliability.
The port reported handling 263,961 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) between January and June, a 2% increase from the same period last year and up 9% compared with the latter half of 2024. Executives credited more reliable shipping schedules and growing global demand for driving the uptick.
“This growth reflects our port’s resilience, global competitiveness, and the value our customers place on reliability,” Port NOLA President and CEO Beth Branch said in a statement.
Import and export trends
Organic chemical imports surged 70% this year, led by shipments from Mexico, while copper imports from Asia increased fivefold. Other major import growth came from Singapore, Malaysia, Chile and Mexico.
On the export side, plastic resin shipments rose 30%, particularly in polyvinyl chloride exports to Southeast Asia and South America. Vietnam, Turkey and Brazil were among the fastest-growing destinations.
“These trends underscore how Port NOLA is connecting Louisiana producers with fast-growing international markets and helping importers diversify their supply chains through the Gulf,” Amanda Coates, the port’s vice president of cargo, said.
Reliability gains
Port officials also pointed to improved schedule reliability as a major factor in cargo growth. On-time performance reached 83% in 2025, boosting equipment availability and reducing delays for shippers. The port has also added feeder services and secured more consistent direct calls, which officials said are strengthening trade connections.
Future capacity
Port NOLA is preparing for further expansion through its $1.8 billion Louisiana International Terminal project, which is designed to handle larger vessels and enhance Gulf Coast shipping competitiveness.
“The Louisiana International Terminal is a transformational investment that positions Port NOLA as the premier global gateway in the Gulf,” Branch said.
The port, a major deepwater facility on the Mississippi River, connects to six Class I railroads and more than 30 inland hubs. Its strategic link with the New Orleans Public Belt Railroad supports its role as an integrated logistics hub.
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