The NC State Ports Authority increased cargo movement and operating revenues for the fiscal year ending June 30 compared to last year. Container movements increased by more than 14 percent and general breakbulk cargo increased by more than 30 percent for the year. The Authority realized a 12 percent increase in operating revenues though overall, the organization saw a net loss of $3.4 million. The principle drivers for this improved performance related to business volume increases coupled with continued cost containment measures.



“The growth in our container and breakbulk volumes is a strong indicator of our relationships with, and service to, many North Carolina-based companies,” said Tom Eagar, NC Ports CEO. “Shipping volumes for commodities like wood pulp and rubber have increased, which is a mark of success for our long-standing customers in North Carolina.” 



NC Ports also saw an increase in export volumes for several NC agricultural customers including a 37 percent increase in the export of frozen meat and poultry products to Asian markets, a 19 percent increase in the export of logs and timber, and a 17 percent increase in the export of raw cotton used in apparel production.

Another sign of growth for the Ports is the return of the woodchip business in Morehead City. A partnership to rehabilitate the wood chip facility in Morehead City will bring further investment to the community. An economic investment study released in February revealed that the ports support more than 65,000 jobs across the state. Further state investment in the ports is currently being determined through the North Carolina Commercial Maritime Strategy Study. 

In addition to closing out the year with increased volumes, the Authority also has received national recognition for its sustainability and communications initiatives. In July, the NC Ports was named by Inbound Logistics magazine as a “G75” Green Supply Chain Partner. Included among the Ports sustainable initiatives, energy use by the Authority will be reduced by approximately 730,000 watts by the end of this year thanks to significant lighting replacements.