A key economic driver in the southeastern United States is the Port of Charleston, and Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina State Ports Authority, greeted delegates at the U.S. Grains Council’s 10th International Marketing Conference and 53rd Annual Membership Meeting in Charleston, S.C., with a spirited overview of one of America’s fastest growing export hubs.

The fifth largest port on the Atlantic coast, Charleston enjoys deep water, a booming local manufacturing economy including many export-oriented companies, and a supportive state and local government. Already capable of handling post-Panamax vessels at high tide, the port is now engaged in a deepening project that will give it unrestricted deep water capability – and an open road for further growth.

As one of the most efficient U.S. ports, Charleston’s cargo volume is growing well above the average for U.S. ports, and the Ports Authority is working hard to sustain the pace in coming years. The Council appreciates the Port Authority’s generosity in stepping up as a major sponsor of our Charleston meeting. The welcome sign is out … and the Port of Charleston is eager to serve U.S. agriculture.

Click here for photos from the meeting.