Marine Link
Thursday, March 28, 2024

As Exports Rise, Maritime Moves America

Maritime Activity Reports, Inc.

August 25, 2014

  • Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation
  • Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation
  • Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation
  • Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation Photo courtesy of the U.S. Department of transportation

Today, I had the opportunity to speak to a group of industry professionals at the Finished Vehicle Logistics Conference, where the theme of the discussion was the import and export of new cars.

I’m sure you’re wondering what vehicle logistics has to do with the Maritime Administration. And that’s a very good question.

My role at this conference highlighted the critical —yet often overlooked— fact that maritime moves America.

Last year, nearly 9.8 million metric tons of vehicles were imported and exported through the 40 U.S. ports that handle vehicles. Furthermore, the value of U.S.-manufactured vehicle exports has increased nearly four-fold over the last decade, growing from $9 billion in 2003 to $38 billion in 2013.

This represents a clear growing demand for U.S.-manufactured vehicles and other products in overseas markets, which means increased traffic and demands for U.S. port facilities. That’s why MARAD is doing all it can to prepare the industry for increasing volumes in waterborne automotive trade and the movement of other freight.

Last year, nearly 9.8 million metric tons of vehicles were imported and exported through the 40 U.S. ports that handle vehicles. Furthermore, the value of U.S.-manufactured vehicle exports has increased nearly four-fold over the last decade, growing from $9 billion in 2003 to $38 billion in 2013.

This represents a clear growing demand for U.S.-manufactured vehicles and other products in overseas markets, which means increased traffic and demands for U.S. port facilities. That’s why MARAD is doing all it can to prepare the industry for increasing volumes in waterborne automotive trade and the movement of other freight.

dot.gov/fastlane
 

Subscribe for
Maritime Reporter E-News

Maritime Reporter E-News is the maritime industry's largest circulation and most authoritative ENews Service, delivered to your Email five times per week