Port of New Orleans President and CEO Gary LaGrange announced Wednesday during his annual address that total general cargo at the Port was up 15 percent through the first six months of 2011, including a 19 percent gain in breakbulk cargo and a 15 percent gain in container volumes. In the January through June 2011 period, 241,000 twenty foot equivalent units (TEUs) moved through the Port's Napoleon Avenue Container Terminal --15 percent up year on year, and puts the Port on pace to break 2010's record year of 427,000 TEUs.
Imported steel, a mainstay for the Port, is also experiencing strong gains so far in 2011. "Steel tonnage is up nearly 21 percent compared to a year ago," LaGrange said. "And all indications point to moderate gains continuing."