Georgia Ports Container Volume Grows 8.6% Fiscal Year 2025

The Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) reported an 8.6% increase in container trade for fiscal year 2025, moving 5.7 million twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs), marking its second busiest year on record, second only to the pandemic-driven boom in 2022. Growth was particularly strong at the Port of Savannah, which averaged over 475,000 TEUs per month, with March, April, and May exceeding 500,000 TEUs each, significantly outpacing other Southeastern ports. Despite challenges from trade war uncertainties and tariffs, GPA's success is attributed to the strategic frontloading of cargo ahead of anticipated tariffs and a steady increase in U.S. East Coast market share, bolstered by shifting trade patterns in Asia and India. The Port of Brunswick maintained stable performance in roll-on/roll-off operations for autos and heavy equipment, although auto imports declined by 16% due to tariff impacts. Meanwhile, South Carolina Ports saw a 3% rise in container volume and 4% growth in rail cargo, with record rail moves at Inland Port Greer, and ongoing expansion plans to increase capacity, including the development of a second berth and a near-port rail yard. Both Georgia and South Carolina ports remain vital economic engines, supporting regional job markets and adapting to evolving global trade dynamics.