"The volume increases experienced in most commodity groups signals a continued economic recovery in most global markets," said Foltz.
Overall tonnage for April 2010 reported gains of 16.4 percent, which brings the GPA's fiscal year-to-date (July 2009 through April 2010) volume to a 6 percent increase compared with the same time period last year. Export containers continued to lead the recovery, posting a 30.4vpercent increase. "A relatively weak US currency and strong foreign demand for our commodity groups are expected to continue," said Foltz. "Trade projections remain optimistic with growing economic demand replacing the recent increase caused by inventory replenishment."
At the Port of Brunswick, the movement of auto and machinery units has also experienced growth for the past five months. Colonel's Island Terminal moved 33,815 total units in April 2010, which is a 75.9 percent increase compared with April 2009.
"Even during the recession, the GPA continued to add capacity and improve operations," said GPA's Chairman of the Board Stephen S. Green. "Our focus is on ensuring our customers continue to receive stellar services."
Georgia's deepwater ports and inland barge terminals support more than 286,476 jobs throughout the state annually and contribute $14.9 billion in income, $55.8 billion in revenue and $2.8 billion in state and local taxes to Georgia's economy.