South Carolina Ports forecast 7pc box growth

THE South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA) Board has approved investments of more than US$77 million in terminal upgrades amid projections for a seven per cent increase in container volume.

In the year starting July 1, the SCSPA plans to invest in terminal improvements, equipment upgrades and new information systems. The largest area of spending is at existing facilities, totalling $35 million. More than $16 million is slated for construction of the new 286-acre container terminal at the former Navy Base, a statement from port authorities said.

"These investments strengthen South Carolina's ability to serve our clients' growth, which will be driven by the deepest channels in the south east and this state's pro-business climate," said SCSPA chairman Bill Stern.

Charleston's May container volume climbed more than 22 per cent year on year with 68,238 containers handled, after four consecutive months of growth.

"After several strong months, the Port of Charleston is now on track to meet its container volume budget in the current fiscal year, which ends June 30," the statement said.

"South Carolina's ports are attracting business back at an increasing pace," said Mr Stern. "While we still have some work to return the business levels of a few years ago, the meter has been moving in the right direction."
(Source:www.schednet.com)