Pilbara Ports delivered total monthly throughput of 65.9 million tonnes in April 2026, marking a 2 percent increase compared to April 2025. The Western Australian port authority reported divergent performance across its two principal facilities.
Port Hedland achieved monthly throughput of 47 million tonnes in April, of which 46.3 million tonnes comprised iron ore exports, representing a 1 percent decrease year-on-year. Imports through Port Hedland totalled 217,000 tonnes, up 1 percent on the prior year.
The Port of Dampier delivered total throughput of 15.2 million tonnes in April 2026, a 3 percent increase from April 2025. Imports through Dampier reached 119,000 tonnes, a notable 41 percent increase year-on-year.
Pilbara Ports noted that throughput fluctuations across its network are influenced by a combination of market conditions, weather, port maintenance operations and customer requirements. The combined performance of both ports demonstrates the region's continued strategic role in commodity exports.
Port Hedland, Australia's largest iron ore export terminal, continues to serve as a critical supply point for global steel production. The strong growth in Dampier's imports signals increased demand for equipment and materials supporting regional mining operations.
Key Takeaways:
1. Pilbara Ports handled 65.9 million tonnes in April 2026, up 2 percent year-on-year.
2. Port Hedland iron ore exports totalled 46.3 million tonnes, down 1 percent annually.
3. Port of Dampier recorded 15.2 million tonnes throughput, representing 3 percent growth.
4. Dampier imports reached 119,000 tonnes, surging 41 percent year-on-year.
5. Throughput fluctuations are driven by market conditions, weather and maintenance operations.
