Trade increases through port

Bunbury Port Authority has recorded a 2 per cent increase in total trade for last financial year on the back of an 862 per cent increase in iron concentrate exports from Iluka’s North Capel operations.

More than 14.2 million tonnes moved through the port with exports accounting for the lion’s share with more than 12.6 million tonnes.

Alumina was the biggest export commodity with 9.4 million tonnes, an increase of one per cent on the previous year, while iron concentrate inc reased f rom 20,126 tonnes in 2010-11 to almost 200,000 tonnes in 2011-12.

Port chief executive Kevin Schellack said the continued increase in trade volume through Bunbury reflected increased growth in the region.

‘‘Solid profit growth also reflects the focus by management in achieving sound commercial returns for the Port and State,’’ he said.

‘‘The Bunbury Port Authority continues to be one of the best performing commercial ports in WA.’’

Mr Schellack said the growth in some sector’s imports and exports was mainly due to market demands.