The Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) has received approval from the US Department of Commerce to extend its Federal Trade Zone (FTZ No. 2) to include St. Tammany Parish, joining Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard Parishes.
The expansion aims to attract new investment, support regional economic development, and create jobs across Southeast Louisiana.
Beth Branch, Port NOLA President and CEO, said: “This approval marks a significant milestone for Port NOLA and our regional partners. By expanding our Federal Trade Zone into St. Tammany Parish, we are offering businesses another powerful tool to strengthen their competitiveness, increase trade opportunities, and ultimately generate new jobs across the region.”
A Federal Trade Zone is a secure area under US Customs and Border Protection that allows companies to defer, reduce, or eliminate duties on imported goods. FTZ designation provides greater supply chain flexibility and encourages international trade.
Through a partnership with the St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation (St. Tammany EDC), Port NOLA seeks to foster growth on the Northshore while boosting revenue across the state.
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Russell Richardson, President and CEO of St. Tammany EDC, stated: “The expansion of FTZ No. 2 into St. Tammany underscores the value of regional collaboration in driving economic growth. This designation not only strengthens our connection to global markets but also reinforces St. Tammany’s role as a critical hub for commerce and logistics in Southeast Louisiana.
“By extending this resource to the Northshore, we’re creating new opportunities for businesses to expand operations, strengthen supply chains, and contribute to Louisiana’s long-term prosperity.”
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The FTZ extension is expected to increase cargo throughput at the Port of New Orleans and enhance Louisiana’s position in global commerce.
Branch added: “Ultimately, this expansion is about ensuring our businesses can compete and thrive. The Port of New Orleans is proud to work alongside St. Tammany leaders to create long-term economic opportunities that benefit our entire region.”
Recently, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry appointed Dale S. Revelle to the Board of Commissioners of Port NOLA.
