JAXPORT CEO Outlines Major Growth Initiatives at State of the Port Address

During the February 15th, 2024, State of the Port address, Jacksonville Port Authority (JAXPORT) Chief Executive Officer Eric Green outlined major growth initiatives currently underway in and around port terminals that are positioning Jacksonville for future cargo volume growth.

Business Developments and Infrastructure Projects

Hosted by the Propeller Club of the United States – Port of Jacksonville, State of the Port provided updates on JAXPORT’s infrastructure projects, business opportunities, and supply chain trends impacting Northeast Florida’s maritime industry to a crowd of more than 500 transportation and logistics professionals.

“JAXPORT and our partners have celebrated a series of significant developments already this year,” said CEO Green. “From the addition of new trade lanes and public-private partnerships to a new cruise service, we are building on our diversification of business and preparing for growth across key cargo types and business lines.”

Highlights from 2024 and Ongoing Infrastructure Projects:

• JAXPORT’s first and only direct container service with the West Coast of South America will begin this spring, operated by MSC, merging existing services to enhance connectivity.
• A long-term agreement with terminal operator Enstructure will expand terminal footprint, accommodating more breakbulk cargo.
• Norwegian Cruise Line agreement brings passenger cruise service starting November 2025.
• Primark opens distribution center, citing Jacksonville’s port capabilities.
• Infrastructure projects include container terminal modernization, auto processing facility expansion, and environmentally-friendly equipment acquisition.
• On-terminal investments driving growth outside JAXPORT’s gates, with significant industrial real estate additions.

CEO Green announced that baby products supplier Frida is the latest global brand to expand its distribution business in Jacksonville, highlighting the region’s attractiveness for international brands seeking efficient logistics solutions.

“In fiscal year 2023, JAXPORT moved more than 1.3 million containers, maintaining its position as Florida’s largest container port and one of the top 10 container ports in the nation,” stated Green. “Cargo activity through Jacksonville’s seaport supports 138,000 jobs and $31 billion in annual economic output for the region and state.”