Georgia’s ports are driving statewide economic growth, supporting 651,000 jobs while boosting cargo throughput at Savannah and Brunswick to record levels.
According to Georgia Ports Authority (GPA), ports now account for 12 per cent of total state employment.
Governor Brian Kemp, said: “Georgia has been recognised as the No. 1 state for business for over a decade in part because we’re also the best state for reliable infrastructure. As powerful economic drivers, the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick are a key part of the pro-job creator environment we’ve fostered to ensure every part of our state can thrive.”
The Port of Savannah handled 5.7 million TEUs in fiscal year 2025, while the Port of Brunswick moved 870,775 units of autos and heavy equipment, maintaining its position as the nation’s busiest RoRo gateway.
GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch, said: “We’re focused on driving growth that supports businesses and communities across our state. We appreciate the trust companies across Georgia place in our port and the strong partnerships we’ve built with organisations like local chambers and economic development authorities. Together, we’re building a more connected and competitive Georgia.”
Top export commodities during the period were forest products, food, and automotive cargo, while machinery, retail goods, and furniture led imports.
Jeff Humphreys, Director of the Selig Center for Economic Growth, stated: “Georgia’s ports are one of its strongest economic engines, fostering the development of virtually every industry. They are especially supportive of transportation, logistics, distribution centres, warehousing, manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, and mining.”
In fiscal year 2024, Georgia’s deepwater ports generated $174 billion in sales, $77 billion in state GDP, and $43 billion in income, contributing $16 billion in taxes across federal, state, and local levels.
Poitevint highlighted that terminal improvements are self-financed through port proceeds, with Savannah handling 35 weekly vessel services, 14,000–16,000 truck moves per day, and 42 double-stack trains weekly. Brunswick moved 901,000 RoRo units in 2024.
In September, the Port of Savannah handled 486,000 TEUs, an 8 per cent increase year-on-year (YoY).
