Proximity to major export production and the strategic location of the harbour for vessel rotation to and from deep-sea destinations makes Port Otago a key link in the international supply chain.  The continuing emphasis on optimising the supply chain makes the availability of a modern, multi-modal port in Otago essential to the economic wellbeing of southern New Zealand.

A growing trend towards containerisation and the emergence of Dunedin as the regional centre for major export industries based on meat, dairy and forestry production enables the port to act as the southern gateway for the key primary industries that still drive New Zealand's international trade.

These containerised exports have more recently been enhanced by the addition of significant exports of fish, apples, and other agriculturally based products.  There is also a growing demand for processed timber produced from the fast growing, sustainable pinus radiata plantations in Port Otago's catchment.

Dunedin, the largest city in Port Otago's catchment, has a population of 123,000 and is a major manufacturing, research, education and tourism hub for New Zealand.  Importantly, it has the comprehensive infrastructure that helps to create successful ports.  The emergence of Dunedin as a regional export centre relies on the area's sophisticated road and rail network and the well-developed warehouse and cool storage sector located there.

This ability to offer a complete package to exporters and importers enhances supply chain efficiency.