The Port of Long Beach processed 9.9 million TEU in 2025, up 2.4 per cent from 2024, marking a new record for the California gateway, reported London's Port Technology International.

Imports rose 1.1 per cent to 4.8 million TEU, while exports fell 5.5 per cent to 1.14 million TEU. Empty containers increased 6.7 per cent to 3.96 million TEU.

Chief executive Noel Hacegaba, in his first State of the Port address, said the port aims to double throughput to 20 million containers annually by 2050. He stressed that rail connectivity and speed to market will be central to achieving this target.

The Pier B On-Dock Rail Support Facility, a US$1.8 billion project due in 2032, will triple rail capacity to 4.7 million TEU. Dr Hacegaba also highlighted plans for the world's first zero-emissions container terminal, the proposed Metro Express Terminal at Pier S, which could handle 1.8 million TEU annually.

Long Beach Harbor Commission president Frank Colonna said the port must act as a responsible steward of land, water and air. He pledged high standards of customer service to ensure goods move efficiently.

Dr Hacegaba added that CargoNav, a digital cargo visibility tool, will soon include a Universal Trucking Appointment System to streamline container pick-up and drop-off across the port's six marine terminals and eventually the wider San Pedro Bay complex.