This week, Georgia’s Governor Brian P. Kemp, accompanied by First Lady Marty Kemp, has embarked on a strategic economic development mission to Panama. The focus of their visit is on the logistics infrastructure and supply chain operations associated with the Panama Canal, as announced by the governor’s office on Tuesday.

Joining them on this mission are key representatives from the Georgia Ports Authority and the Georgia Department of Economic Development. Their collective aim is to strengthen ties and explore opportunities that could benefit Georgia’s bustling ports.

Governor Kemp emphasized the pivotal role that the state’s ports play in Georgia’s economic landscape. “Georgia’s ports support over 650,000 jobs both directly and indirectly, making them some of the fastest-growing in the nation,” Kemp stated. “The Panama Canal is a crucial link between our ports and major global trade partners, particularly in Savannah and Brunswick. We are eager to gain insights from their operations as we strive to enhance and expand our infrastructure back home.”

Griff Lynch, President and CEO of the Georgia Ports Authority, underscored the significance of this mission, noting that it serves to reinforce a long-standing partnership between Georgia and Panama. Such collaborations are vital as they continue to propel the state’s economic development efforts forward.

Georgia Ports Authority President and CEO Griff Lynch said the mission reinforces a long-standing partnership.

“We are one of the top trading partners with the Panama Canal, and we look to build on this with our trip to Panama,” Lynch said.

Georgia continues to be a national leader in trade, ranking sixth in the U.S. for total dollar value. In 2024 alone, the state facilitated more than $198.7 billion in trade with 222 countries and territories.

The state’s ports in Savannah and Brunswick are key drivers of that success.

• Port of Savannah remains one of America’s best-connected gateways, handling 35 ship calls per week, 42 doublestack trains weekly, and roughly 14,000 truck gate moves each day.
• Port of Brunswick, the nation’s top roll-on/roll-off port for automotive and machinery, continues to expand with more than $262 million in upgrades and a new $100 million fourth berth currently under construction.

Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson said the trip underscores the importance of global connectivity.

“Connectivity drives business, and the Panama Canal is a vital link in Georgia’s global network,” Wilson said. “The strong flow of goods between Panama and our ports fuels investment, supports jobs, and keeps Georgia competitive. When companies combine that connectivity with our skilled workforce and pro-business environment, it’s clear why so many choose to invest and grow in Georgia.”