GRAINS and pulses have emerged as Port of Melbourne’s largest export commodity for the fifth year running, as agricultural exports continue to play a vital role in Victoria’s economy.

According to Port of Melbourne’s latest trade data from Financial Year 2025, 3.7 million tonnes of grains and pulses were exported through the Port, accounting for nearly one-third of total overseas export volume.

Rebounding strongly from the drought-induced lows of FY19, grain exports recorded a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21 percent over the five-year period from FY20 to FY25.

Port of Melbourne head of trade and supply chain Mark Bergamasco said the Port was pleased to play a part in getting the country’s high quality grain production to key export markets.

“Grains and pulses continue to be our leading export commodity, at 33 per cent of total exports through the port,” Mr Bergamasco said.

“We are proud to play a role in supporting the export of south-east Australia’s key agricultural products and look forward to continuing our work with grain growers, exporters, and supply chain partners.

“Their commitment to delivering high-quality grains to global markets makes a significant contribution to the prosperity of our state and national economy.”

Wheat continues to lead

The grains and pulses commodity category comprises wheat, barley, pulses, canola, malt, and cereals and oats.

Notably, wheat continues to lead export volumes, with 2.02Mt of wheat leaving the Port in FY25.

Similarly, in containerised cargo, wheat remained Port of Melbourne’s single largest export commodity by volume.

In FY25, 39,000 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) of wheat were exported through Port of Melbourne.

Southeast Asia key export location

A significant trend observed over the last five years is South-east Asia’s emergence as a key importer of Australian grain and pulses.

In FY25, 1.4Mt, comprising 40pc of the Port’s grain exports, were destined for Southeast Asia – the highest tonnage ever recorded.

South-east Asian nations account for four of the port’s top five grain and pulses export markets in FY25, with Indonesia and Vietnam on 9pc each, and The Philippines and Thailand on 7pc each absorbing substantial volumes of the port’s grain exports.

Wheat, in particular, was the top commodity exported to South-east Asia.

Similarly, South Asia – especially India and Bangladesh – has grown in significance in recent years, importing notable quantities of lentils and canola.

Overall, China continues to dominate as the single largest importer of our grains, representing 11pc of total grain and pulses exported through Port of Melbourne.

Source: Port of Melbourne