News Summary
Georgia’s ports are significantly boosting the state’s economy, supporting nearly 651,000 jobs and generating $43 billion in personal income. The Port of Savannah has seen a 9% increase in container units handled, while the Georgia Ports Authority plans substantial investments in infrastructure. Despite challenges at the Port of Brunswick, the overall economic output from deepwater ports remains impressive, contributing $174 billion in sales. The diverse range of goods moving through these facilities is crucial for maintaining job growth and economic stability across multiple sectors in Georgia.
Savannah, Georgia – The economic significance of Georgia’s ports is on the rise as they now support nearly 651,000 jobs and contribute substantially to the state’s revenue. According to an economic impact study conducted by the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, port activity has supported approximately 650,965 full- and part-time jobs in the state, marking an increase of 41,770 jobs or 7% from fiscal year 2023. With one in eight jobs in Georgia linked to the state’s two ocean ports, the growth in the sector is noteworthy as it plays a vital role in bolstering the overall economy.
The Port of Savannah has reported a significant year-over-year increase of 9% in the container units it handled, which reflects ongoing growth. A new routing process introduced at the Port of Savannah aims to enhance turnaround times for ships, further improving operational efficiency and delivery capacity.
Georgia’s deepwater ports collectively account for 12% of the total employment within the state. In addition, these ports contribute an impressive $43 billion in personal income, representing 7% of Georgia’s total state income. The economic activities associated with the ports are crucial for various sectors including transportation, logistics, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and mining.
However, not all data reflects positive trends. The Port of Brunswick has faced challenges, with a reported 14% year-to-year decline in traffic for autos and machinery. This decline underscores the dynamic and sometimes uncertain nature of port-related industries.
In response to these trends, the Georgia Ports Authority (GPA) has taken significant measures to improve infrastructure and capacity. A budget of $614 million has been approved for ongoing infrastructure projects, and the GPA plans to invest a total of $4.5 billion over the next decade. Governor Brian Kemp has publicly emphasized the importance of the ports in driving job creation and stimulating Georgia’s economy.
The GPA has expanded its network to include “inland ports,” such as the 42-acre Appalachian Regional Port in Murray County, which has attracted major companies like GE Appliances and Hanwha Q Cells. This expansion continues with another inland port in Bainbridge designed to handle barge traffic, and a new 104-acre port scheduled to open next year along Interstate 85 in Hall County.
In terms of economic output, Georgia’s deepwater ports accounted for $174 billion in sales and contributed a remarkable $77 billion to the state’s Gross Domestic Product in the last fiscal year. Port operations result in substantial tax revenue, generating approximately $10 billion in federal taxes, $3 billion in state taxes, and another $3 billion in local taxes annually.
The variety of goods moving through the ports plays a key role in this economic activity. The top export commodities during the study period included forest products, food, and automotive cargo, while machinery, retail goods, and furniture dominated the import category. This diverse freight mix supports a multitude of jobs and industries, ensuring the ports remain integral to Georgia’s economy.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WTOC: Georgia Ports Reports Significant Job Growth 2023-2024
- Wikipedia: Port of Savannah
- Grice Connect: One in Eight Jobs Across State Related to Savannah & Brunswick Ports
- Google Search: Georgia ports economic impact
- WJCL: Automation vs. Jobs: The Battle at Savannah’s Port
- Google Scholar: Georgia ports jobs
- Savannah Now: Georgia Ports Support Economy Across the State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia ports
- The Center Square: Georgia Ports Economic Contributions
- Google News: Georgia Ports Industry
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
