IMPACT OF REROUTING CARGO ON VIRGINIA
Chinese Imports via the Panama or Suez Canal to the Port of Virginia
Virginia Commonwealth University
International Business Certificate Program Project
Submitted to:
Dr. Van Wood & Mr. George Hiller
Submitted by:
Mario Camardella – VEDP
November 15, 2005
ORIGINAL PROJECT ABSTRACT – Submitted October 11, 2005
Topic: Impact of Rerouting Cargo on Virginia Business
Objective: This paper will analyze many factors associated with rerouting cargo due to congestion and capacity constraints in the post-Panamax vessel age. Principally, the focus will be on U.S. imports from Asia which are being redirected to other ports rather than Southern California. Ultimately, a case for the best alternatives will be presented from the position of Virginia businesses.
Abstract: For over a decade, the major volume of U.S. imports discharge at the ports of Los Angeles/Long Beach, California from Asian markets, mostly China. As volumes continue to grow, infrastructures are challenged and any disruption can be tumultuous. Coupled with ships too large to pass thru the Panama Canal, alternatives must be considered as early as possible to avoid overwhelming delays. Other substitution services are being considered--such as other West Coast ports, routing through the Panama Canal to Gulf or Southern ports, rail service through Mexico, westerly routes through the Suez Canal to Northeast ports, or sourcing from other regions altogether.
Many factors will come into play since many players are involved in every scenario. Eve ...