Port Manatee in Florida, US, experienced a significant increase in trade activity during the first four months of 2014, with exports growing at nine times the rate of other US ports.
New figures released recently by WorldCity Trade Numbers show the value of Port Manatee’s trade with the world totalled $257.57 million – up 17.15% over the same period in 2013.
Exports increased by 25.68%, while imports rose 14.34%.
The port’s exports are predicted to get a further boost when Air Products begins exporting liquefied natural gas heat exchangers.
Carlos Buqueras, Port Manatee’s executive director, said: “Port Manatee’s trade growth thus far this year is impressive indeed; we expect to be the fastest-growing export port in Florida.”
He added: “We are readying for off-the-charts growth in commerce, furthering our already impressive contribution to the Manatee County economy.”
To accommodate the burgeoning volumes, the Port recently opened a 12m (40ft) draft berth.
Port Manatee serves bulk, breakbulk, container, heavylift, project and general cargo customers; it is the US’s closest deepwater port to the expanding Panama Canal.
