The port registered 3498 ship movements through the 2008-09 financial year 221 more than the previous corresponding period as almost 96 million tonnes of cargo, valued at $17.01 billion, was moved through Newcastle.

Ports Minister Joe Tripodi said the record trade was a great achievement given the world economic downturn.

The result was more than 2.5 million tonnes and $6.66 billion above the figures for the 2007-08 financial year.

Coal was the major export with 90.49 million tonnes shipped through the port.

"This was the first time more than 90 million tonnes of coal has been exported from Newcastle, underlining its status as the world's largest coal export port," Mr Tripodi said.

Total coal exports were valued at $14.32 billion. Other commodities, totalling 5.35 million tonnes, were valued at $2.69 billion.

Mr Tripodi said the figures showed the importance of Newcastle Port Corporation's focus on growth and diversity.

"Non-coal commodities also have enormous economic value and the corporation's drive to develop the former BHP Steelwork's site for port-related industry is a major planning priority," the Minister said.

He said BP's multimillion-dollar investment in the construction of a fuel pipeline was an example of the port diversifying its operations.