The Port of Vancouver reached a historic milestone in 2025, handling a record 170.4 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo, representing an 8% increase from the previous year. This surge was propelled by exceptional export growth in several sectors, notably grain, crude oil, potash, containerised goods, and automobiles.
Bulk cargo, which constitutes the majority of the port’s throughput and is 98% export-driven, led the way. Grain exports hit a new peak at 30.3 MMT, fueled by wheat shipments, which grew 20% from 2024 and reached 15.9 MMT. Western Canadian wheat found buyers in 35 countries, spanning the Indo-Pacific, Europe, Central America, and the Middle East. Fertiliser exports also saw strong gains, rising 21% to 14.0 MMT, with potash up 28% to a record 10.5 MMT and sulphur up 5% to 3.5 MMT, serving markets such as Brazil, China, and Indonesia.
Crude oil exports doubled to 24.4 MMT, making it one of the port’s largest export commodities, largely due to the Trans Mountain expansion, which enabled Alberta oilsands producers to reach new markets, particularly in China and South Korea. Canola oil exports diversified further, led by increases to South Korea (up 37%) and Peru (up 217%), with nine new export destinations added in 2025. However, canola seed exports fell 23% after August due to Chinese tariffs, though volumes are rebounding following a new trade agreement.
Containerised cargo set a new record at 3.8 million TEUs, a 9% increase from 2024, driven by resilient Canadian demand. Both containerised imports (up 5%) and exports (up 3%) rose, supporting the movement of high-value Canadian goods and essential imports for families and businesses. Auto imports also reached a record, with nearly 480,000 vehicles processed, thanks in part to expanded terminal capacity.
The cruise sector remained robust, with 1.2 million passenger visits across 300 ship calls, injecting approximately $3 million per visit into the local economy. Breakbulk cargo—primarily woodpulp exports and metals imports—remained steady, while overall exports grew 12% to 127.5 MMT and domestic volumes declined.
International trade through the port increased 11% to 147 MMT, with over three-quarters of international cargo moving between Canada and Indo-Pacific nations. China accounted for 36% of total international volumes, followed by Japan (13%) and South Korea (9%). Over 85% of the port’s cargo in 2025 supported trade beyond the U.S.
To support continued growth, the port is investing in major infrastructure projects. Roberts Bank Terminal 2 will add significant container capacity, while upgrades to shipping facilities, new cranes, expanded shore power for cruise ships, and rail improvements are underway. LNG bunkering has begun, advancing environmental goals and paving the way for alternative fuels. The port authority’s collaboration with government and industry, along with Indigenous engagement, is ensuring sustainable and inclusive development.
These achievements and ongoing investments underscore the port’s critical role as Canada’s largest and North America’s most diversified port, connecting Canadian businesses to more than 170 international markets and supporting the nation’s trade priorities in an increasingly dynamic global landscape.
