In a positive development for the maritime industry, the U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters experienced a notable upswing in cargo volumes during 2023, marking a 6.5% increase compared to the previous year, as reported by the Lake Carriers’ Association (LCA), says an article published on marine link website.
Summary
- The U.S.-flag Great Lakes freighters experienced a notable upswing in cargo volumes during 2023, marking a 6.5% increase compared to the previous year.
- The U.S. laker fleet transported a substantial 81.4 million tons of cargo in 2023, surpassing the previous year’s figures by 6.5%. This achievement also exceeded the fleet’s five-year average by 1.2%.
- Iron ore emerged as a significant contributor to the overall growth, with total cargos reaching 42.4 million tons, indicating an impressive 13.4% increase compared to the preceding year.
- Limestone shipments displayed a notable increase of 3.9%, reaching 24.6 million tons. Sand shipments experienced a substantial surge of 12.4%. In contrast, coal cargos witnessed a modest decline of 9.7%, amounting to 8.4 million tons.
- Salt and grain cargos experienced reductions of 5.8% and 11.8%, respectively
Cargo Tonnage Surges, 81.4 Million Tons Transported
The U.S. laker fleet transported a substantial 81.4 million tons of cargo in 2023, surpassing the previous year’s figures by 6.5%. This achievement also exceeded the fleet’s five-year average by 1.2%, reflecting a robust performance in the maritime sector.
Iron Ore Leads The Surge, 13.4% Increase
Iron ore emerged as a significant contributor to the overall growth, with total cargos reaching 42.4 million tons, indicating an impressive 13.4% increase compared to the preceding year. This surge in iron ore shipments underscores the vitality of the industry and its role in regional economic activities.
Diverse Cargo Movement
Limestone shipments displayed a notable increase of 3.9%, reaching 24.6 million tons. Sand shipments experienced a substantial surge of 12.4%, contributing to the overall positive trend. In contrast, coal cargos witnessed a modest decline of 9.7%, amounting to 8.4 million tons.
Salt And Grain Experience Declines
While the majority of cargo types saw increases, salt and grain cargos experienced reductions of 5.8% and 11.8%, respectively. These variations highlight the dynamic nature of the shipping industry and its responsiveness to market demands.
Cement Shipments Maintain Stability, 3.7 Million Tons
Cement shipments remained consistent, with figures in 2023 closely mirroring those of 2022, totaling 3.7 million tons. This stability in cement transportation indicates a steady aspect within the broader spectrum of cargo movement.
As the U.S.-flag Great Lakes shipping sector concludes a strong year in 2023, the diverse performance across different cargo types suggests the resilience and adaptability of the maritime industry to changing market dynamics.
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Source: marine link
