Port authority in Western Australia, Pilbara Ports, reported a 7.0 per cent increase in throughput for December year-on-year.
Pilbara Ports delivered a total monthly throughput of 71.2 million tonnes for December 2025 which marks the highest December figure on record.
This figure can be attributed to a series of targeted operational changes implemented at the Port of Port Hedland in recent months.
Operational changes included revised vessel movement guidelines for ebb-tide departures, creating additional sailing opportunities for large vessels, alongside ongoing improvements to Dynamic Under Keel Clearance (DUKC). These enhancements enabled ships to make better use of sailing windows, safely carry more cargo and increase total shipping volumes.
The Port of Port Hedland achieved a monthly throughput of 51.7 million tonnes, of which 50.9 million tonnes was iron ore exports. This was a 7.0 per cent increase of total throughput compared to December 2024.
Imports through the Port of Port Hedland totalled 167,000 tonnes, a decrease of 15 per cent compared to December 2024.
The Port of Dampier delivered a total throughput of 17 million tonnes, a six per cent increase from December 2024.
Imports through the Port of Dampier totalled 140,000 tonnes, an increase of 67 per cent from December 2024.
Several factors influence the fluctuation of throughput, including changes in market conditions, port maintenance operations and proponent needs.
In other news, one in three intercepted heavy vehicles were found to be non-compliant with the law according to a recent joint operation.
