Georgia Ports 25% Container Growth for April

Georgia Ports Authority’s (GPA) Executive Director Curtis J. Foltz announced that the GPA experienced 25.6% container growth in April and has recorded five consecutive months of double-digit growth through its ports.

“The volume increases experienced in most commodity groups signals a continued economic recovery in most global markets,” said Foltz. “We are especially pleased that our ports are adding new jobs. I want to thank all of the men and women in the maritime industry who provide excellent value for our customers every day.”

Overall tonnage for April 2010 reported gains of 16.4%, which brings the GPA’s fiscal year-to-date (July 2009 through April 2010) volume to a 6% increase compared with the same time period last year. Export containers continued to lead the recovery, posting a 30.4% increase. “A relatively weak U.S. currency and strong foreign demand for our commodity groups are expected to continue,” said Foltz. “Trade projections remain optimistic with growing economic demand replacing the recent increase caused by inventory replenishment.”

At the Port of Brunswick, the movement of auto and machinery units has also experienced growth for the past five months. Colonel’s Island Terminal moved 33,815 total units in April 2010, which is a 75.9-percent increase compared with April 2009.

“Even during the recession, the GPA continued to add capacity and improve operations,” said GPA’s Chairman of the Board Stephen S. Green. “Our focus is on ensuring our customers continue to receive stellar services.”