Freight tonnages through UK ports were stable overall in 2018, the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Annual UK Port Freight Statistics show.
There was only a 0.1% difference on the previous year at 483.3m tonnes, said the British Ports Association (BPA). The statistics cover 95% of UK physical imports and exports, which are facilitated by ships using British ports.
The British Ports Association said: “Despite a temperamental global trading climate and the uncertainties created by Brexit, 2018 was a steady year for port operators.
“Overall port freight figures remain constant although there is plenty of port capacity in the dry bulks, project cargo and particularly in the container sectors, meaning shipping companies have plenty of choice. This means competition between ports, which drives efficiencies and innovation.”