Executive Commentary |
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hurdles to clear to fully realize our potential .
Reversing multi-year market share loss continues to be a top priority . In 2024 , we began to see the reversal of a 20-year downward trend at the San Pedro Bay port complex . We are confident that continued progress in winning back cargo can be accomplished by demonstrating service reliability that meets the needs of shippers and consumers .
PMA members and other supply chain stakeholders are also concerned about additional air quality regulations at the San Pedro Bay port complex that could have long-term operational implications . Any new regulations should recognize that the
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electric and hydrogen infrastructure needed to support reduced emissions , both at the ports and in the region , is years away from being realized . It is also vital that any proposed regulations not directly or indirectly cap cargo volumes — this would send economic shockwaves throughout the national supply chain .
PMA is also ensuring our coastwide contract continues to be honored by both parties . The contract , in place through July 2028 , delivers worldclass wages and benefits , as well as the right of terminal operators to invest in modern technology , including automation .
To support our workforce and member companies , PMA is ramping
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up training programs to prepare International Longshore and Warehouse Union ( ILWU ) members for the longshore jobs of the future . Our new training center at the Port of Los Angeles provides areas for upskill and reskill training , including the maintenance and repair of automated equipment .
There is great promise for the future of West Coast ports , which account for nearly 10 % of America ’ s GDP and support millions of jobs and businesses nationwide . As stewards of West Coast ports , PMA is focused on ensuring this economic engine continues to thrive .
Port of Montreal
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Paul Bird
CCO www . port-montreal . com
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North Carolina Ports
Brian E . Clark
Executive Director www . ncports . com
US East Coast ports will face complex challenges in 2025 , driven by shifting ocean carrier alliances and trade dynamics .
After losing cargo to East and Gulf coast ports following pandemic-related supply chain disruptions , US West Coast ports are increasing their market share of imported goods , a trend that is expected to extend into early 2025 . But our team remains optimistic as people , businesses and investment dollars continue to pour into the Southeast , evidenced by the increased demand for near-port sites that can support heavy manufacturing operations and import distribution growth . The port operators who remain focused on servicing this growth and increased demand by investing in both infrastructure and customer relationships will be most successful in the long term . North Carolina Ports has not only
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made significant infrastructure improvements to deliver best-inclass productivity , but industry partners and stakeholders continue to develop near-port solutions for both dry and reefer cargo as well .
Ocean carrier alliance changes and realignment will also cause disruptions in the first quarter of 2025 . New strings and service models could lead to disrupted schedules and equipment flows while the transition takes place . Port operators must be vigilant in ensuring they are not an added pain point during this transition period by optimizing operational efficiency , cargo visibility and port capacity , especially as larger container ships are deployed — such as the 15,000- TEU class vessels that will call on the Port of Wilmington once the new shipping alliances are operational . As we navigate the changes that 2025 will undoubtedly bring , we remain committed to delivering value to all our stakeholders , guided by our core principles of safety , people , integrity , service and teamwork .
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“ The port operators who remain focused on servicing this growth and increased demand by investing in both infrastructure and customer relationships will be most successful in the long term .”
Brian E . Clark
“ This shift could lead to longterm changes in shipping patterns and market share , not always in the best interests of the beneficial cargo owners and the final users of the supply chain .”
Paul Bird
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We expect East Coast ports to face a number of challenges in 2025 and beyond . It goes without saying that the labor disruptions — both the International Longshoremen ’ s Association affecting the US East Coast , which is only operating on a short-term contract extension , as well as the strike at the Port of Montreal — is putting a lot of pressure on the established supply chains . This will continue to have impacts on North American economies and consumers , as key industries such as pharmaceuticals , automotive and agriculture rely heavily on these ports . This has also caused East Coast ports to face increased competition with their West Coast counterparts . Some cargo has already been diverted to the West Coast , and this shift could lead to long-term changes in shipping patterns and market share , not always in the best interests of the beneficial cargo owners and the final users of the supply chain .
Additionally , ports will need to continue to navigate shifts in global trade , especially those influenced by changes in production locations , as well as ongoing geopolitical issues affecting major shipping routes .
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