Page 31 - Port of Baltimroe Magazine - Jan Feb 2012

“There does not seem to be a single
thing we can point to, but rather several
global elements aligning,” said Johnson.
He explained that a strong demand for
U.S. autos overseas and a weaker dollar
has exports of American cars soaring. On
the import side, Japanese manufacturers
whose production was interrupted by a
devastating earthquake and tsunami early
in the year are coming back online. Also, a
flourishing market of used American cars
sold overseas, mainly to West Africa, has
boosted export numbers even further.
Add to this Baltimore’s prime location
within one of the country’s largest consumer
markets and excellent rail access to
manufacturers, and it makes sense that
autos are on a roll.
Baltimore is uniquely situated to handle
the renaissance of American automakers.
Located further inland than any other port
on the East Coast, Baltimore is close to the
auto industry’s manufacturing facilities.
“We are seeing the auto industry begin
its recovery and we are seeing the benefits
of that,” said Johnson. During the first six
months of 2011, Baltimore’s tonnage was up
15 percent from the same period last year,
making it the busiest port on the East Coast
for auto traffic.
Even as more cars and trucks cross Baltimore’s piers, the Port’s cutting-edge QCHAT
program helps to ensure that automobiles are loaded and unloaded without any damage.
To subscribe or renew, visitwww.marylandports.com January/February 2012 ■ The Port of Baltimore [29]