Portland grain exports were up 22% for the fiscal year ending in June.
The Port of Portland has seen a 36% increase in marine business so far in 2010, showing a positive trend for at least one area of business in Oregon. Overall tonnage, used by the port to determine growth in business, was up 36% year-to-date in September, with growth in grain, steel and bulk mineral standing out.
The Pacific Northwest has seen a strong demand for grains this year because of bad harvests in Russia and Australia, said Port Director Bill Wyatt. With its grain exports up 22% for the fiscal year ending in June, the port remains one of the strongest exporters of grain in the U.S.