As of Monday, the auto throughput at the Shanghai Nangang Port had reached 1 million units so far this year, exceeding the total of the previous year, according to data collected by the port.

As a key "ro-ro" (roll-on/roll-off) automobile terminal in east China, the port has become a vital gateway for automakers and heavy-duty equipment manufacturers with its efficient handling capacity and fast turnaround.

In an interview with local television, a border inspection officer at the Yangshan Entry-Exit Border Inspection Station said the terminal continues to see steady growth in vessel calls and auto shipments.

"The Nangang Port has handled 742 vessel calls so far this year, with the ro-ro throughput reaching 1 million vehicles. The imports and exports of motor vehicles in foreign trade through the port have increased by more than 40 percent over a year earlier, with the exports representing a 37-percent increase," said Wang Zhenwei, the inspection officer.