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Wilhelmshaven Deep-Water Port Captures Strong U.S. Interest with Enhanced Transatlantic Connectivity

Wilhelmshaven global trade

Wilhelmshaven Deep-Water Port Captures Strong U.S. Interest with Enhanced Transatlantic Connectivity

JadeWeserPort Wilhelmshaven, Germany’s only deep-water container port, is making waves in North America, capturing significant attention from U.S. shippers and logistics partners. A strategic roadshow, featuring participation at the Breakbulk Americas trade fair in Houston, a customer event in Philadelphia, and port visits in New York, underscored the port’s rising profile as a critical hub for transatlantic trade.

Building Transatlantic Connections

The roadshow was organized in collaboration with EUROGATE and Hapag-Lloyd, emphasizing JadeWeserPort’s competitive advantages. Marc-Oliver Hauswald, Managing Director of JadeWeserPort Marketing, highlighted the success of Hapag-Lloyd’s Atlantic Loop 4 service, which launched in January 2024. This service establishes a direct connection between Wilhelmshaven and key North American ports, including Houston, Veracruz, and Altamira, streamlining trade between Europe, the U.S., and Mexico.

“JadeWeserPort’s ability to operate around the clock, independent of tidal conditions, makes it a standout among European ports,” noted André Heim, Head of Sales at JadeWeserPort Wilhelmshaven. With its 18-meter water depth, the port is uniquely positioned to handle large container ships efficiently, providing an edge for shippers and logistics operators.

Strengthening Ties with North America

The delegation leveraged their Houston visit to engage with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, opening discussions on enhanced collaboration with Canadian ports. These efforts align with JadeWeserPort’s goal of expanding its reach across North American supply chains.

With seamless rail and truck connections complementing its maritime services, Wilhelmshaven offers a compelling solution for U.S. and Canadian shippers seeking efficient logistics pathways into Europe. For cargo destined for European markets, the port’s advanced infrastructure ensures rapid handling, while its freight village provides 150 hectares of storage and distribution capacity.

A Gateway to Europe’s Consumers

Situated strategically on Germany’s North Sea coast, JadeWeserPort connects shippers to over 250 million European consumers. The port plays a vital role in handling Germany’s thriving trade with the U.S., its largest trading partner. Key imports from the U.S. include pharmaceutical products, data processing equipment, and machinery, while Germany’s exports feature automotive parts, chemical products, and electrical equipment.

Recent infrastructure expansions at Wilhelmshaven include a newly constructed multi-user logistics hall spanning 30,000 square meters, with an additional 110,000 square meters of warehouse space planned for the near future. This growth ensures ample capacity for companies seeking efficient distribution hubs.

A Bright Future for Transatlantic Trade

JadeWeserPort’s growing connections and ongoing investments are reshaping its role in the global logistics landscape. By fostering relationships with North American partners and enhancing its services, Wilhelmshaven solidifies its position as a premier gateway for international trade, offering shippers unmatched efficiency and access to European markets.

With its focus on innovation and collaboration, JadeWeserPort is poised to meet the evolving needs of global supply chains, ensuring seamless operations for shippers on both sides of the Atlantic.

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Mexico’s $2.7 Billion Port Expansion Defies Trade Tensions

Mexico is forging ahead with a $2.7 billion expansion of its Port of Manzanillo, signaling confidence in global trade despite looming tariff threats from the incoming Trump administration. The ambitious project, slated for completion by 2030, aims to more than double the port’s capacity, propelling it into the ranks of the world’s top 20 container ports and making it Latin America’s busiest maritime gateway.

Located on the Pacific coast in Colima, Manzanillo will expand from 450 hectares to over 1,800 hectares, increasing its annual capacity to 10 million TEUs. This would position the port on par with the Port of Los Angeles, the United States’ leading hub for maritime trade. The project is funded through a mix of public and private investments, with interest from firms such as Ferromex, a Grupo Mexico Transportes railroad subsidiary.

The port handles goods from over 140 countries, including key materials for the automotive and steel industries. While China is a significant trading partner, Manzanillo also imports from Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Latin American nations, highlighting its diversified trade network.

Geopolitical concerns, however, loom large. The U.S. and Canada have expressed apprehension about Chinese influence in Mexico’s ports, fearing that they could serve as backdoor routes for goods circumventing trade agreements. Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, have hinted at these concerns ahead of the 2026 North American trade agreement review.

Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum has pushed back against such claims, emphasizing the low percentage of Chinese content in Mexican-manufactured exports. She also affirmed Mexico’s commitment to reducing its trade imbalance with China while strengthening ties with its North American partners.

Despite tariff threats and geopolitical scrutiny, Asipona Manzanillo officials remain optimistic. “We continue growing, seeking to be an efficient and dynamic port,” said Julieta Juarez Ochoa, the port’s commercialization manager. Admiral Mario Alberto Gasque, director of Asipona Manzanillo, added that Mexican ports are prepared to adapt to evolving political conditions.

Security is also a priority for the expanded facility. Enhanced technologies are being implemented to combat drug trafficking, including detecting synthetic drug precursors like fentanyl and methamphetamine, in collaboration with U.S. anti-drug initiatives.

As global trade faces mounting challenges, the Port of Manzanillo’s expansion represents a bold investment in Mexico’s position as a pivotal link in the international supply chain.

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U.S. Ports Secure $580M in Grants for Infrastructure Modernization

Marking the third anniversary of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has announced nearly $580 million in Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) awards. These grants will fund 31 projects across 15 states and one U.S. territory, boosting critical infrastructure upgrades at ports nationwide.

Cary Davis, President and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), expressed gratitude to bipartisan Congressional leaders and USDOT for their support. “The hard work begins now. AAPA ports are committed to working with our Federal Government partners to deploy funds swiftly, break ground, and complete upgrades that will strengthen our nation’s supply chain,” Davis stated.

Maritime Administrator Ann Phillips highlighted the broader impact of these upgrades, noting, “Modernizing America’s ports is vital for enhancing the multimodal network that supports our supply chain. With 2.3 billion short tons of goods moving through U.S. waterways annually, this funding strengthens goods movement, builds resilience across all transportation modes, and addresses environmental impacts on port communities.”

The grants range from $53 million for restoring key wharves at Puerto Rico’s Port of San Juan to $708,750 for a planning initiative at Texas’ Port of Harlingen.

As recipients begin preparing for project launches, AAPA continues to advocate for full PIDP funding and faster project timelines. The association urges Congress to pass the bipartisan PORT Act, which aims to streamline permitting processes, reduce delays, and accelerate infrastructure development.

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EPA Grants $3 Billion to Decarbonize U.S. Ports with Clean Technologies

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $3 billion in grants to 55 projects across 27 states and territories as part of the Clean Ports Program, marking a major push toward decarbonizing American ports.

Transforming Ports with Zero-Emission Technology

The funding will support the acquisition of more than 1,500 units of cargo-handling equipment, 1,000 drayage trucks, 10 locomotives, and 20 vessels. Additionally, ports will benefit from the development of shore power systems, battery-electric and hydrogen charging infrastructure, and solar energy generation.

Cary S. Davis, President and CEO of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), celebrated the grants, stating, “These awards will usher in a cleaner and more resilient future for our ports and national transportation system. We are grateful to Congress and the Biden-Harris Administration for their commitment.”

A Cleaner Future for Ports and Communities

EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the importance of this investment, saying, “Our nation’s ports play a vital role in powering the economy and offering good-paying jobs. This $3 billion investment delivers cleaner technologies that will reduce harmful emissions, protecting both workers and nearby communities.”

A Path Toward Permanent Funding

With the current funding provided through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), the AAPA is focused on collaborating with the EPA to streamline the grant deployment process. The association aims to demonstrate the program’s impact through emissions reductions and technological advancements, making a case for Congress to turn the Clean Ports Program into a permanent, annually funded initiative.

This investment positions U.S. ports as leaders in sustainable practices, advancing both economic and environmental goals.

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Port of Los Angeles Sets All-Time Record with Massive Cargo Surge in Q3

The Port of Los Angeles achieved its largest-ever quarterly performance, processing 2.85 million TEUs between July and September 2024. September alone saw the port handle 954,706 TEUs, a 27% increase compared to the same month last year.

With these new figures, the port has moved 7.58 million TEUs in the first nine months of 2024—an 18% increase over the same period in 2023. August was another standout month, with nearly 960,597 TEUs processed, marking a 16% jump year-over-year.

Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, praised the collaborative efforts of the port’s workforce and partners: “Achieving these records reflects the hard work and efficiency of our longshore workers, truckers, terminal operators, and rail partners. Thanks to their dedication, we’ve handled significant cargo volumes and remain ready to manage even more.”

September’s loaded imports totaled 497,803 TEUs, a 26% increase over the prior year, while loaded exports declined slightly by 5% to 114,702 TEUs. Additionally, the port processed 342,201 empty containers—marking a 45% increase from 2023, further supporting trade demand across global markets.

With its strong Q3 performance, the Port of Los Angeles is 18% ahead of projections for 2024, reflecting the port’s growing importance in global supply chains and its ability to adapt to increasing trade volumes.

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Setback for U.S. Arctic Strategy as Nome Deepwater Port Project Hits Cost Barrier

The U.S. effort to expand Arctic capabilities faces a blow as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has canceled the solicitation for the Nome deepwater port project due to soaring costs. Originally set to begin construction in 2025, the project’s future is now uncertain.

A notice from the Army Corps confirmed that the solicitation was canceled because bids exceeded available funding and statutory procurement limits. The project had been heralded as a significant step toward bolstering U.S. presence in the Arctic, countering increased Russian and Chinese activity, and enabling military operations closer to the region.

The proposed $662 million port expansion—discussed for more than a decade—had secured federal and state funding earlier this year. Under a partnership agreement between the City of Nome and the Army Corps, the federal agency would cover 90% of the costs, with Nome funding the remaining 10%.

The urgency behind the project intensified earlier this month when Russian and Chinese vessels conducted their first joint patrol in the Arctic, passing near Nome. As Dr. Troy Bouffard, Director of the Center for Arctic Security and Resilience at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, explained: “Presence is the most important factor in addressing Arctic challenges, and a deepwater port in Nome is the best solution.”

The nearest U.S. maritime base, Dutch Harbor, sits 750 nautical miles south of Nome—a two-day sail. Without progress on the deepwater port, the U.S. sends “the wrong strategic message to Arctic competitors,” Bouffard emphasized.

The project was to unfold in three phases. Phase 1 planned for a 3,400-foot extension of the west causeway, with dredging for a deeper channel following in Phase 2. The final phase included demolishing and rebuilding the east causeway, deepening the port from 22 feet to 40 feet. Completion was targeted for 2030, with the expanded port accommodating large cruise ships, cargo vessels, and U.S. military vessels—except aircraft carriers.

However, cost overruns have derailed these plans. Although the Army Corps solicited bids in February 2024, no public updates were provided on the number or scope of proposals received. Spokesperson John Budnik confirmed that pricing came in “well above the statutory limit,” forcing the cancellation of the phase 1 solicitation.

While Budnik assured that efforts to move the project forward remain ongoing, it is unclear how timelines will shift or whether funding will be adjusted. The City of Nome declined to comment on the development.

The Nome port project is the latest Arctic initiative facing rising costs and delays. Similarly, the U.S. Coast Guard’s icebreaker program—essential for Arctic operations—has seen cost estimates balloon by 250% since its 2019 contract award. Construction of the first icebreaker is now expected to begin by the end of this year.

The cancellation of the Nome solicitation leaves U.S. policymakers grappling with how to advance Arctic capabilities amid mounting geopolitical competition and escalating costs.

global trade chancay

China-Backed Chancay Megaport Poised to Redefine South American-Asia Trade Routes

Peru’s new Chancay port, a sprawling infrastructure project backed by China, is set to become a pivotal hub for trade between South America and Asia. Operated by Hong Kong-based Cosco Shipping, the port will begin limited operations next month, gradually ramping up to facilitate regular trans-Pacific cargo shipments.

Soft Launch with Direct Routes to Shanghai

Carlos Tejada, general manager of Cosco Shipping Chancay Peru, announced that the port will initiate its “test conditioning” phase in late November, running until May. During this phase, Chancay will begin handling actual cargo with two direct container ships per week to Shanghai.

“While this is just the beginning, Chancay’s potential will expand based on demand, possibly adding other Asian markets to its routes,” Tejada said during a Peruvian-Chinese business forum.

Regional Integration and Capacity Expansion

Chancay aims to become the gateway for goods from neighboring countries, with cabotage routes planned from Colombia, Ecuador, and Chile. These smaller shipments will consolidate at Chancay and be transported to Asia on vessels initially carrying up to 14,000 containers, with future plans to increase capacity to 24,000 containers.

The project is owned and operated by Cosco Shipping Ports, holding a 60% stake, with the remaining 40% owned by Volcan Compañía Minera, a Peruvian mining company controlled by Glencore.

A Strategic Shift in Global Trade

Once fully operational, Chancay is expected to reshape trade dynamics in the region by streamlining South America’s access to Asian markets. The port’s strategic location, combined with its ambitious capacity, could establish it as a major transshipment hub and a competitor to larger ports along the Pacific coast.

With China’s involvement, Chancay not only reflects growing economic ties between South America and Asia but also underscores Beijing’s expanding influence in global infrastructure and trade.

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Ports Reopen Across Southeast U.S. as Hurricane Milton Recovery Progresses

The U.S. Coast Guard has reopened several key ports across Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina after Hurricane Milton swept through the region.

Read also: Forwarders Shift Focus to Hurricane Fallout as Strike Concerns Ease

Milton initially made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane on Florida’s Gulf Coast, causing widespread damage before crossing the state and regaining strength over the Atlantic. Federal, state, and local agencies continue to assess the storm’s impact as recovery efforts ramp up.

Thanks to pre-planning and coordination among agencies such as NOAA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Florida Division of Emergency Management, several ports resumed operations as of October 10. The reopened ports include:

1. Florida: Key West, Port Everglades, Port Miami, and the Miami River
2. Georgia: Brunswick and Savannah
3. South Carolina: Charleston and Georgetown

Additionally, the Coast Guard’s Captain of the Port for Sector St. Petersburg announced the reopening of Port Tampa and Seaport Manatee, albeit with operational restrictions. Federal pilotage movements—like U.S. vessels exceeding 1,600 gross tonnes and petroleum barges over 10,000 gross tonnes—are still prohibited. Vessel movements are currently limited to daylight hours with at least three nautical miles of visibility, though vessels can shift freely within the ports.

Meanwhile, other Florida ports remain closed as inspections and damage assessments continue. These include St. Petersburg, Fort Myers, the Port of Palm Beach, Fort Pierce, Port Canaveral, Fernandina, and Jacksonville.

JAXPORT has stated that it remains closed but plans to reopen its main gates on October 11 after completing post-storm evaluations.

This recovery effort follows the recent reopening of the Port of New Orleans (Port NOLA) and the New Orleans Public Belt (NOPB), which resumed operations after Hurricane Francine disrupted activities in mid-September.

As response teams work around the clock, more updates on port statuses are expected in the coming days.

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Brief U.S. Port Strike Won’t Derail Import Surge Ahead of Holidays

Despite a brief three-day strike at East and Gulf Coast ports, U.S. container imports are expected to remain strong, supporting the upcoming holiday shopping season. The strike, initiated on October 1 by the International Longshoremen’s Association after their Master Contract with the U.S. Maritime Alliance expired, ended quickly with a temporary contract extension until mid-January.

Read also: A Prolonged Port Strike Narrowly Averted, for now 

Retailers and consumers alike were relieved by the swift resolution. Jonathan Gold, Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy at the National Retail Federation (NRF), emphasized that while ports will need a few weeks to recover, no significant impact on holiday shipments is expected.

In fact, U.S. ports have been handling robust cargo volumes. August saw a 19.3% year-over-year increase, reaching 2.34 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) – the highest since May 2022. September’s numbers are projected to have risen by 12.9%, with October forecasted to see a more moderate 3.1% increase. The overall trend suggests that 2024 could close with a 12.1% rise in total imports compared to 2023, aligning with retail sales growth forecasts.

Ben Hackett, Founder of Hackett Associates, attributed the recent surge in imports to strategic contingency planning by wholesalers and retailers ahead of the strike, rather than an unexpected spike in demand. However, industry experts warn that a long-term labor agreement needs to be in place by mid-January to prevent future disruptions.

For now, the retail sector appears poised for a strong holiday season, buoyed by stable import levels and continued economic resilience.

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Port Operations Resume as USMX and ILA Reach Labor Agreement

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) celebrated the announcement of a new agreement between the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), leading to the swift resumption of operations at East and Gulf Coast ports.

Read also: Managing The Supply Chain through Disruption: The 2024 ILA Strike on the Gulf and East Coasts

AAPA President and CEO, Cary S. Davis, emphasized the importance of cooperation between management and labor in keeping the nation’s supply chain moving. While it may take some time for full operations to return, Davis expressed gratitude for the successful negotiations and acknowledged the resilience of the port system.

Before the strike, AAPA had sent a letter to President Biden, warning of the potential economic consequences of a prolonged labor dispute.