State of the Ports: Georgia Ports Authority Looks Ahead

A Hub of Global Commerce

Every port has a story, but few can boast the legacy and forward momentum of the Georgia’s Ports Authority (GPA). The ports of Savannah and Brunswick represent critical channels for global trade while playing a pivotal role in the state’s economic success.

At the Savannah State of the Port event on February 25, CEO Griff Lynch charted a bold future, highlighting how the past and present partnerships have fueled growth and set the stage for even greater achievements.

Reflecting on Growth

The Georgia Ports Authority has long been a significant pillar of the state’s economy. With Georgia’s export economy led by small businesses, Gov. Brian Kemp stressed the ports' role in helping these companies to reach international customers.

“The impact of Georgia’s ports is felt in all 159 counties, as hardworking Georgians and the industries that employ them rely on these gateways to global commerce to reach markets around the world,” said Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp. “I’m proud to know that the bulk of our exports are produced by small businesses, and the outstanding performance of the Georgia Ports Authority – along with its commitment to strategic investment and growth – are key reasons our state has been ranked No. 1 for business for 11 years in a row.”

The numbers speak for themselves. Last year, GPA processed nearly 5.6 million twenty-foot equivalent container units (TEUs) — a monumental increase of 618,000 TEUs over 2023. This growth further solidifies Savannah as the fastest-growing container gateway along the U.S. East and Gulf coasts.

Over the past ten years, growth across Roll on/Roll off (Ro/Ro), rail, and cargo tell a compelling story for the port's future - 31% Ro/Ro growth, 71% rail growth, and a 66% increase in cargo since 2015.

The "GPA Way"

What sets Georgia Ports apart is not just the sheer volume of cargo they handle but the unique “GPA way.” Defined by strong partnerships, superior connectivity, and foresight in capacity planning, this strategy isn’t just about shipping goods — it’s about moving Georgia forward.

Collaboration stays central to this approach. GPA Board Chairperson Kent Fountain pointed out that teamwork between state leaders, Georgia Ports employees, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), and other stakeholders ensures the ports stay best in class and easiest for customers to use.

Expanding for the Future

With success comes the responsibility to stay ahead of demand. Lynch unveiled plans to grow capacity at the Port of Savannah, including investments in berth space, container yards, rail infrastructure, and expanded truck gates.

These advancements will guarantee that Georgia continues to accommodate rising cargo volumes while maintaining seamless operations. By planning for the long term, the ports will continue to deliver reliability and efficiency to businesses both large and small.

For supply chain consultants and site selectors, these announcements are especially meaningful. The ports’ planned enhancements further strengthen Georgia’s position as a logistics leader, offering unparalleled infrastructure to companies eager to thrive in a global market. The ports are ready, not just for today’s demands, but for tomorrow’s challenges as well.

“I'm proud to be part of this wonderful organization that for 80 years has been just doing great things for people throughout the state and beyond. But that is not the end of the journey.

"The journey is just beginning,” said Lynch.

Setting Sail Toward Opportunity

The ports of Savannah and Brunswick continue to be vital economic engines for Georgia and key facilitators of global trade. With bold plans for expansion, Georgia Ports solidify their status not just as transportation hubs but as powerful catalysts for business success.

Have questions about business growth in Georgia? Contact a member of our team today for information on available sites, labor trends, and more.