GOODS being exported through the Port of Cork were up 9% last year and according to its chairman trade traffic showed a remarkable resilience.
Port of Cork chairman Dermot O’Mahoney said 8.8 million tonnes of goods were handled by the company in 2011, on par with the previous year.
"A remarkable feature of the figures is the very positive effect on the local economy by the increase in exports from the port, which are actually up by 19% since 2009.
Mr O’Mahoney said that although the growth in export volumes to pre–recession levels reflected a bounce back, import volumes are still 12.9% below 2007 levels.
He said the continued low volume of imports is putting huge strain on the ports, shipping lines and transport sector that service the country.
The port’s container business showed an increase of 5% in 2011.
Animal feed, fertiliser and other goods have shown a marginal decrease in 2011.
Oil traffic has remained steady despite lower levels of domestic economic activity. However, exports of refined product from Conoco Phillips Whitegate Oil Refinery has remained strong and continues to be a significant part of the port’s business.
"With 98% of all goods imported or exported from Ireland moved by ship, the importance of ports to our economy is of vital strategic importance," said Mr O’Mahoney." The Port of Cork is a key link to the continued economic success of Ireland and in particular the entire Munster region."
He said the challenge now facing the port is to continue to develop to meet the needs of the country as it emerges from this current recession.
"This requires that we be visionary and seize opportunities presented by emerging trends and logistic supply changes," the chairman said.
A total of 53 cruise vessels visited the port last year, bringing 100,000 passengers and crew.
Research suggests each passenger spent between €73 and €100 while here.
Last year, the port won first prize for "Best Destination Experience (Organised)" in the world and second prize for "Best Port Welcome" in the Dream World Cruise Destinations Awards.