The Port of Los Angeles has struck a deal with the California Manufacturers & Technology Association (CMTA) to manage the supply and provision of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
According to a statement, parties’ the memorandum of understanding (MoU) calls for greater cooperation between CMTA and the Port of Los Angeles on promoting the exports of manufactured goods made here in California by CMTA members.
The MoU is being undertaken as part of Logistics Victory Los Angeles (LoVLA), the initiative launched in April to get much-needed PPE to the region’s healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This MOU exemplifies how the public and private sector can work together to make a difference during a global health crisis,” said Gene Seroka, the Port’s Executive Director and also the Chief Logistics Officer for the City of Los Angeles.
“We are very grateful for CMTA for its readiness and willingness to team up to keep the PPE supply chain moving, as well as explore export opportunities critical to rebuilding our state’s economy.”
The newly signed MoU will focus on integration and reciprocal website information between LoVLA and CMTA’s ‘Safely Making California” Marketplace, an online portal created by CMTA and the State of California in June to help fill a critical need for non-medical grade PPE.
Items include face masks, face shields, partitions, gowns, gloves, sanitizer and wipes that have been in high demand since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
“The CMTA Safely Making California Marketplace links regional producers, buyers and information so that PPE equipment gets made and delivered quickly,” said CMTA President Lance Hastings.
“We’re thrilled to partner with the City of Los Angeles to further create opportunities to connect manufacturers and employers in need of this safety equipment.”
Additionally, the MoU commits the parties to collaboratively explore opportunities to promote export growth through the Port of Los Angeles and support CMTA’s efforts to grow the state’s manufacturing sector and export base.
The Port and CMTA will also look at possibilities for joint advocacy on public policy issues that help California manufacturers compete in a global market.
The announcement follows the Port posting its monthly financial results of 2020. In June it handled 856,389, which also made it the second busiest July in its history.
“Fewer canceled sailings and 11 additional ‘ad hoc’ or unscheduled ship calls helped drive both imports and exports higher than recent months but still short of last July’s all-time record,” said Seroka.
“Preliminary data for August indicates solid volumes as retailers continue restocking inventories and preparing for the year-end holiday season.”
Los Angeles has been the worst hit port in the US throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and has seen its traffic fall for the majority of 2020.
