(BALTIMORE, MD) --- The Maryland Port Administration (MPA) today received the Presidential "E" Award for excellence in exporting during a ceremony at the White House with President George W. Bush. The President's "E" Award was created in 1961 to recognize persons, firms, or organizations that contribute significantly to increase U.S. exports. The MPA was awarded this special distinction for its increased export business over the last several years. The MPA, which also won the "E" award in 1964, is only the 23rd port organization out of 361 total ports in the U.S. to win the highly acclaimed recognition. It is only the fourth port to win the award twice.
"This is a tremendous accomplishment for the MPA, labor and the entire port community," said Transportation Secretary John D. Porcari. "From 2002 through 2006, general cargo exported from the Port's public marine terminals grew by 42 percent. Some specific export categories increased over 100 percent. This type of growth helps fuel Maryland's economy as exports contribute to the health and stability of the Port of Baltimore, one of the State's premier economic engines."
During the 2002 through 2006 time frame, general cargo exported from the Port of Baltimore's public marine terminals grew from 1.8 million tons to 2.5 million tons. In that same period, roll on/roll off export cargo (farm and construction equipment) went from 128,204 tons to 306,498 tons, a 139 percent increase. Auto exports during that same period increased from 28,804 units to 77,525 units, a 169 percent jump.
"We are enormously grateful to receive this recognition, and the fact that the MPA is one of only four ports to win it twice makes it that much more impressive," said MPA Executive Director Brooks Royster. "This award reflects the Port of Baltimore as one of the export gateways to the world's marketplaces."
The mission of the MPA, which oversees the six public marine terminals of the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, is to stimulate the flow of waterborne commerce through the State of Maryland in a manner that provides economic benefit to Maryland citizens. The MPA directly markets and promotes the Port of Baltimore, facilitates trade through the Port, and supports both public and private port facilities. The MPA was created in 1956 to modernize and promote the Port of Baltimore.
Since its founding in 1706, the Port of Baltimore has been a gateway to the world. Excellence in exporting has always been a driving force for the Port. As an economic indicator, the Port of Baltimore generates $2 billion in business revenues, puts $2.4 billion into the pockets of Maryland's workforce, and contributes $278 million in state and local taxes. The Port of Baltimore's economic engine also has a substantial employment impact in the retention and creation of jobs. About 19,000 Marylanders enjoy direct jobs working at the Port, while another 80,000 are employed by companies importing or exporting merchandise through the Port of Baltimore.
The Port of Baltimore is ranked number one in the nation for roll on/roll off cargo, number one for import trucks, number two for exporting autos, and number two for importing woodpulp, which is used to produce paper and related products. In the most recent national cargo rankings, the Port of Baltimore is ranked 14th for total cargo tonnage and 12th in total value of cargo.
CONTACT:
Richard Scher
MPA Communications
(410) 385-4480 |
