Agricultural Exports Surge Out of Brisbane Port Amidst Climate's Influence

Strategic Insights -

Agricultural exports out of the Port of Brisbane have seen a significant surge in the past five years, with the exception of sugar, which has witnessed a drastic decline. The port's spokesperson attributed the increase in refrigerated meat exports to the rise in cattle supply, production of abattoirs, and international demand, with over 50% of the product being exported to north Asian markets. Meanwhile, the production and trade of chickpeas have skyrocketed, with an increase from 323,793 tonnes to 1,105,844 tonnes.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Port of Brisbane has seen a dramatic increase in agricultural exports, except for sugar, which has declined by 72% over the past five years, from 22,905 tonnes to 6,163 tonnes.
  • Refrigerated meat exports have risen by 15% to a record 79,500 TEU in 2024/25, with over 50% of the product being exported to north Asian markets.
  • The surge in chickpea production and trade can be attributed to the temporary lifting of Indian chickpea tariffs earlier in 2025, combined with favorable growing conditions.
  • The Port of Brisbane is the largest agribusiness center in Australia, with the capacity to load four bulk grain ships at the same time.
  • Grain Trade Australia's non-executive director Scott Merson highlighted the significance of the Port of Brisbane, stating it is a unique zone in the Australian grains landscape.
  • The port's capacity has increased due to the doubling of bulk loading terminals, allowing for more efficient and increased trade volumes.
  • The Brisbane region's consistent production zone and developed areas make it a more economically viable option for grain production and trade compared to the Port of Gladstone.

Statistics:

  • Sugar exports out of the Port of Brisbane have decreased by 72% over five years, from 22,905 tonnes to 6,163 tonnes.
  • Refrigerated meat exports have increased by 15% to a record 79,500 TEU in 2024/25.
  • Chickpea production and trade have skyrocketed, with an increase from 323,793 tonnes to 1,105,844 tonnes over five years.
  • The Port of Brisbane handles over 450 types of commodities and deals with about 140 countries worldwide.
  • The port's capacity has increased to allow for four bulk grain ships to be loaded at the same time.

Sources:

  • Judith Maizey (Byline) - Port of Brisbane spokesperson's quotes
  • Judith Maizey (Byline) - Analysis of agricultural exports out of the Port of Brisbane
  • Scott Merson, Grain Trade Australia non-executive director - Insights on the Port of Brisbane's significance and grain trade dynamics
  • Port of Brisbane spokesperson - Statement on the port's capacity and trade volumes