We are pleased to share the first of our new quarterly trade report, which captures and presents key trading data showing activity through the UK’s biggest port.
Between them, the 70 terminals across the Port of London handle around 1 million tonnes of shipments every week. For the first time, this activity will now be reported quarterly, giving a clear picture of trends in trade and port activity.
The report - linked below - covering April to June 2025 shows a strong quarter, highlights include:
- 14 million tonnes of cargo moved through the Port, the highest quarterly tonnage in five years
- Imports grew by 7%, reaching 11.4 million tonnes
- Exports rose by 42%, to 2.9 million tonnes
- Unitised cargo - container shipments - made up the biggest form of trade at 51%, followed by oils and aggregate
- Steel trading was lower this quarter, but overall tonnage of steel through the port is 13% higher than at this point last year
View the Q2 2025 PLA Trade Report
Introducing the new Quarterly Trade report, the PLA’s Chief Financial Officer, Steve Lockwood, said: “The country’s growth goes hand in hand with the growth of business through the Port of London. That is because ports are the front line for growth, bringing in fuels, building materials and goods, and opening up access to and from markets around the world.
"As the UK’s biggest port, responsible for more than 50m tonnes of cargo each year, the Port of London and our customers are essential for turning ambitions for growth into a reality.”
Looking ahead, the PLA will continue to support trade and investment on the tidal Thames by:
- Investing to make the Port of London the best place to trade
- Encouraging innovation, including around decarbonisation
- Backing customers in exploring new business opportunities