PENANG: The Butterworth Deep-Water Wharf (BDWW) recorded exceptional export growth in the third quarter of financial year 2025 (3Q25), with overall performance far surpassing the same period last year.
The latest data reaffirms the Penang port system’s strengthening role as a key regional trade hub, chairman of the Penang Port Commission, Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said in a statement.
Cargo volume at the Free Commercial Zone rose sharply from 4.93 million tonnes in 2024 to 20.40 million tonnes in 2025, an increase of 313.54%.
Exports registered an even more remarkable surge, climbing from 202,119 tonnes to 2.59 million tonnes – a growth of 1181.59%. This rapid expansion was driven primarily by rising export activity, with more trade declarations opting for Penang as the preferred export channel.
At the same time, growing domestic demand boosted value-added services across sectors such as alcoholic beverages, plastic resins, electrical components, and plastic products.
Yeoh said that the surge in exports not only strengthened port performance but also delivered tangible benefits to the northern region’s economy.
“The growth has created new job opportunities, increased income for local enterprises and suppliers, and reinforced the port services, logistics, warehousing, and supply chain industries.
“Small and medium enterprises are also benefiting from a more active trade network, further enhancing their market competitiveness.”
He added that strong export growth and the expansion of value-added services further consolidate Penang’s role as a regional trade hub.
“The Penang Port Commission will continue to implement modernisation plans to improve operational efficiency and infrastructure, ensuring sustained competitiveness while contributing to more resilient economic development,” Yeoh said.
