Mumbai Port Authority Sets New Cargo Record with 75.15 MMT in 2025-26
The Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) has achieved a historic milestone by recording its highest-ever cargo throughput of 75.15 million metric tonnes (MMT) during the fiscal year 2025-26. This represents a substantial 9.5% growth compared to the previous year, highlighting robust operational performance amid ongoing global trade uncertainties.
Broad-Based Growth Across Cargo Segments
The growth was comprehensive, driven primarily by liquid bulk cargo, which increased by 9.8% to reach 46.83 MMT. Dry bulk cargo followed with an impressive 14.7% rise to 22.77 MMT, while break bulk maintained a steady contribution. Overall, the cargo composition for the year stood at:
- 63% liquid bulk
- 30% dry bulk
- 7% break bulk
In total, the port managed 1,850 vessels, including 1,515 cargo ships, indicating a significant uptick in maritime activity. This enhanced logistics and faster cargo handling have benefited trade as a cost-effective transport mode, while also creating jobs and improving commuter services.
Leadership in Cruise Tourism and Shipbuilding
MbPA continued to dominate the cruise tourism sector, handling 95 cruise calls and welcoming over 2.5 lakh passengers. In shipbuilding and repair, the port serviced 87 vessels for repairs and had 23 under construction. Additionally, plans are advancing for a new greenfield shipbuilding cluster in Maharashtra, aimed at boosting local industry and employment.
Key Highlights and Infrastructure Improvements
Several notable achievements marked the year:
- Coastal Cargo: MbPA retained a strong 30% share in coastal cargo, handling 21.9 MMT, reinforcing its critical role in domestic logistics.
- Fertiliser Imports: A remarkable 141% surge in fertiliser and fertiliser raw material imports provided crucial support to the agriculture sector.
- Vehicle Handling: Over 80,000 vehicles, including premium and electric models, were processed, solidifying the port's position as a hub for project cargo like heavy engineering equipment.
Rail connectivity saw a major enhancement, with rail-borne cargo more than doubling to 5.26 lakh metric tonnes, facilitating efficient and sustainable evacuation. Operational efficiency also improved, as the average vessel turnaround time decreased to 64.05 hours, and berth productivity rose to 11,365 MT per berth day.
Future Outlook and Targets
With ongoing infrastructure upgrades and policy support under national logistics initiatives, the Mumbai Port Authority has set an ambitious target of 80 MMT cargo throughput for FY27. This goal signals continued growth and resilience in India's maritime trade, positioning MbPA as a key player in the nation's economic development.
