Port of Oakland Leads U.S. in International Refrigerated Exports with $8.5 Billion in Agricultural Goods

With the Port of Oakland continuing to be a vital hub for U.S. agricultural exports, the port’s thriving activity is not slowing down. According to their most recent report, as of October 2024, the Port has managed 235,899 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of agricultural commodities, valued at than $8.5 billion. With these numbers, Oakland maintains its top spot and leads the country in volume of foreign refrigerated exports.

“The Port of Oakland is a major international gateway for California’s and the nation’s farmers,” said Maritime Director Bryan Brandes, underscoring the importance of Oakland in this network. “Agricultural exports are especially important commodities for our Port’s business,” the Port of Oakland said. Agricultural items make up between 37 and 45 percent of Oakland’s overall exports in any given year. These figures confirm the Port’s seven-year run as the top U.S. port in its class and highlight its crucial role in the export sector.

Oakland’s infrastructure developments, such as the PCC Logistics and Cool Port facilities, demonstrate the Port’s dedication to increasing the agricultural industry’s capacity for frozen and refrigerated goods. Oakland’s reefer exports reached a $7 billion commercial value in 2023 alone, demonstrating the effectiveness of their ongoing investment in the logistical pipeline of the cold chain.

With 90,461 TEUs and $3.4 billion, 49,552 TEUs and $2.95 billion, 19,316 TEUs and $680 million, respectively, categories such Edible Fruits and Nuts, Frozen Proteins, and Dairy Products attract the largest export charges. Products including wine, spirits, beverages, and a variety of prepared foods are also passing through Oakland’s docks, adding billions more to the port’s export value overall. The Port credits strategic advantages such its close proximity to the Central Valley of California, direct ocean carrier services to Asia, and on-site cold storage capabilities for its success.

About 90 percent of the region’s food and agricultural commodities pass via the Oakland Seaport’s marine terminals on their way to international markets, further demonstrating its logistical strength. Oakland is a prime example of the crucial intersection of infrastructure, investment, and advantageous location in supporting international food distribution networks as it solidifies its position as an export powerhouse.

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