Latest Statistics Show a Jump from Eighth to Seventh in Value of Cargo

The Maryland Port Administration (MPA) announced that it improved in two categories from 2003 to 2004- total cargo and dollar value of that cargo. The updated statistics come from the United States Maritime Administration, which releases foreign cargo information for major US ports.

Foreign cargo coming through Maryland's Port of Baltimore increased 28% over 2003, from 24.7 million tons to 31.8 million tons. This is the highest total since 1981 and the first time that foreign cargo has exceeded 30 million tons since 1995. The increase in cargo catapulted Maryland's Port of Baltimore from 19th in 2003 to 14th in 2004 in cargo volume among US ports.

'These numbers demonstrate why Maryland's Port of Baltimore is considered one of the top cargo ports in the country,' said Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. 'From automobiles to tractors, coal, paper and sugar, the Port handles cargo everyday that contributes to the daily lives of the nation's citizens. Under the leadership and guidance of Brooks Royster, the Port is in excellent hands and will undoubtedly continue to serve Maryland as one of our prime economic engines.'

In addition to an increase in the amount of cargo, the Port also saw an improvement in the value of that cargo. Total foreign cargo value in 2004 was $31.2 billion, the Port's highest level in its history. This is an increase from about $26 billion in cargo in 2003. The Port improved to seventh among major US ports for total value of cargo. In 2003, the Port ranked eighth.

'The Port's strategic location being 180 miles closer to the Midwest than other east coast

ports allows us to move cargo in a more timely and efficient manner,' said MPA Executive Director Brooks Royster. 'Our existing rail services and our immediate access to major interstate highways located just minutes from our terminals gives our Port distinct advantages over competing ports.'

In 2004, imports were up approximately 26% and exports were up 39%. Maryland's Port of Baltimore is ranked number one in roll on/roll off cargo, number two in automobile importing and exporting, and also number two in importing paper.