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Expected Surge From China on Port Radar

Posted on: Thursday, 16 February 2006, 09:00 CST

By Paul T. Rosynsky, STAFF WRITER

OAKLAND -- By 2020, more than 60 million containers a year of Chinese-made goods will pass through the nation's West Coast ports, including the Port of Oakland.

That is more than triple the amount that moves through those ports today, and it will represent more than half of all cargo imported into the United States.

It also will provide an opportunity for businesses to cash in.

"As we grow, we need to be sure there is a local benefit to the community," said Joe Wong, port deputy executive director. "So, as a community we need to learn, so we can take advantage of the growth."

That learning opportunity will come in April, when the Port of Oakland and Marine Digest and Cargo Business News will host the fifth annual ChinaConference.

For two days, experts from all aspects of the maritime trade will gather to discuss what to expect in the next 10 years.

Representatives from the companies that make products in China to those that ship them to the United States will speak about what is happening and what needs to be done.

Wong said the conference will give businesses information on what the shipping industry will need in the future.

Businesses from toy makers to road builders could benefit from learning what is in store, Wong said.

"This is a good opportunity for us to showcase what we do," Wong said. "China is going to be a major power in terms of economic development."

The fifth annual China Conference is scheduled for April 3 and 4 at the Oakland Marriott City Center. For more information, visit http://www.thechinaconference.com.

Source: Oakland Tribune

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