MANILA, Philippines — The volume of cargo at the country’s ports sustained its expansion in the first half on the back of continued strong economic performance and upbeat business environment.
Data from the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) showed that cargo traffic rose 3.74 percent in the January to June period to 128.67 million metric tons (MMT) from 124.03 MMT in the same period last year.
“Increased volume of activities registered in various ports nationwide contributed to the recorded improvement in shipping and trade performance as of end-June,” the PPA said.
“The sustained cargo traffic growth was propelled by the continued robust private consumption behind the continued moderation in inflation and more upbeat consumer sentiment,” it said.
Foreign cargo traffic increased by nearly nine percent year-on-year to 78.95 MMT due to the increase in import and export of goods.