New Security Measures At Port of New York and New Jersey

Containerized cargo handled in the Port of New York and New Jersey reached 4,792,922 twenty-foot-equivalent units (TEUs) in 2005, an increase of 7.6% over 2004 and an annual record. The total value of all cargo handled in the ports in 2005 topped $132 billion. That’s a 15.6% increase over 2004 values.

Trade with Far East Asia was up 17% and Southeast Asia trade rose 15%, port officials reported.

Cargo volumes weren’t the only things on the rise at the ports. Spending on security has totaled $70 million since September 11, 2001, according to Kenneth J. Ringler Jr., port authority executive director. The port will spend another $6 million for enhanced security projects over the next two years.

A security task force will study ways to enhance port security and develop recommendations in six months. A pilot test is underway to track 25 containers from point of origin to destination. Enhanced security projects include more closed-circuit television cameras and a biometric access control system at the Port Authority Administration Building, at public berths and at other critical infrastructure.

Among trade highlights for 2005, China trade increased 25%. China remains the port’s largest trading partner, accounting for 22.6% of overall cargo volumes. Rounding out the top five trading partners are Italy, Germany, India and Brazil.

Significant increases in export trade were achieved with India (up 52% over 2004) and Russia (up 40%).