(BALTIMORE, MD) --- The Maryland Port Administration (MPA) announced today that 2006 was a record breaking year at the Port of Baltimore. In recently released maritime cargo statistics, the amount of general cargo handled at the public and private terminals exceeded nine million tons for the first time in the Port's 301-year history. The total value of cargo moving through the Port's public and private terminals in 2006 was valued at $36.7 billion, up from the record $35.9 billion set in 2005.
"The Port of Baltimore is a key pillar of Maryland's economy," said Transportation Secretary John D. Porcari. "These performance figures are a tribute to the hard work of labor, local businesses, and the Maryland Port Administration. In the coming years, we will build on this momentum to make the Port of Baltimore a leader both in this country and around the globe."
According to foreign trade data compiled by the U.S. Census Bureau, foreign general cargo at Baltimore's public and private terminals rose from 8.8 million tons in 2005 to 9.3 million tons in 2006.
This was the first time ever that general cargo tonnage exceeded nine million tons. It was also the fifth consecutive record year overall for general cargo tonnage. General cargo is handled at the six MPA public terminals: Dundalk, Seagirt, North Locust Point, South Locust Point, Fairfield, and Masonville,as well as several private terminals.
"Business at the Port has never been stronger." said MPA Executive Director Brooks Royster. "We continue to strengthen our core cargoes, and have identified some new opportunities." We look forward to the momentum continuing throughout the year."
Total foreign cargo moving through the Port of Baltimore in 2006 was 30.6 million tons. This is the third straight year the port has exceeded the 30 million ton figure.
National Rankings:
In the most recent national cargo rankings of 361 U.S. ports, the Port of Baltimore is ranked number one for: The Port of Baltimore is ranked second nationally for: Auto exports Sugar imports Woodpulp imports and Aluminum imports
The Port of Baltimore is ranked third for: paper imports and wood imports
The Port of Baltimore is ranked fourth nationally for autos.
Overall, the Port of Baltimore is ranked 12th nationally for total dollar value of cargo and 14th for total foreign cargo handled.
CONTACT:
Richard Scher
JB Hanson
MPA Communications
410-385-4480 |
