Non-major ports handled 753.07 million tonnes (mn t) of cargo in FY2025-26, reflecting a modest expansion as maritime trade continued to grow. The throughput represented a rise of 1.44 per cent year on year from 742.41 mn t in FY2024-25, signalling a slower growth trajectory than previous periods. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways data indicated mixed commodity trends and a softer finish to the year.

Overseas cargo accounted for the bulk of throughput at 612.02 mn t, representing 81.27 per cent of total handled, while coastal movements stood at 141.05 mn t with an 18.73 per cent share. Both overseas and coastal segments grew about 1.4 per cent in the year, underlining modest demand across trade channels. Container traffic continued to contribute a significant share, representing 21.47 per cent of volumes and rising 2.25 per cent.

Activity moderated in March 2026 when non-major ports handled 62.11 mn t, down 4.13 per cent compared with March 2025, reflecting weaker month end flows. Overseas cargo in the month fell 6.09 per cent while coastal cargo rose 3.41 per cent, indicating a shift towards shorter distance movements. The monthly slowdown weighed on the annual growth rate despite full year gains.

State maritime boards in Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Odisha remained dominant among non-major ports. Gujarat Maritime Board handled 485.25 mn t, accounting for more than 64 per cent of the non-major throughput, with Andhra Pradesh at 116.77 mn t, Maharashtra at 70.56 mn t and Odisha ports at 52.95 mn t. The concentration highlighted regional imbalances in cargo distribution.

Commodity patterns showed coal as the largest category with a 26.93 per cent share, while petroleum, oil and lubricants and crude products together accounted for 26.13 per cent and grew 13.47 per cent. Fertiliser cargo recorded the highest annual gain at 51.9 per cent even as foodgrains, iron ore and other categories declined and coal volumes dipped 0.86 per cent. Non-major port performance accompanied a record at major ports, which handled 915.17 mn t in FY2025-26, underscoring sector expansion.