The Port of Tampa, Florida announced Thursday that it has a new strategic partner that will provide expertise in processing and handling new automobile shipments, adding diversity to the cargo mix moving through Florida's largest port. The Tampa Port Authority and AMPORTS signed a letter of intent on Thursday to develop a new terminal dedicated to the import and export of automobiles and rolling stock.
The Tampa Port Authority said that Mexico's large and growing capacity for automotive production is spurring demand for efficient and low-cost distribution to the US market, where an estimated one in 10 cars sold in the US is made in Mexico.
"AMPORTS is thrilled to be a part of Tampa's automotive growth. We believe that Tampa is right in the sweet spot for short sea shipments out of Mexico. We also believe it will become a gateway port for export finished vehicles," Steven Rand, AMPORTS president and CEO, said.
In addition to imports from Mexico, AMPORTS and the Port of Tampa will serve as a gateway for US-produced vehicles aimed toward Latin America and Caribbean destinations.