Issue link: https://pma.uberflip.com/i/1544017
12 2025 ANNUAL REPORT Modernization is not only vital for ports. It is an economic imperative for the entire supply chain. Efficient terminals sustain steady work for rail crews, truck drivers, warehouse employees, and logistics providers, while enabling retailers, manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses to move goods reliably and affordably. When ports fall behind, the impact ripples outward, raising costs, disrupting inventories, and threatening jobs far beyond the docks. Beyond the waterfront, port activity supports hundreds of thousands of transportation and distribution jobs and nearly 12 million related user jobs nationwide, while generating more than $120 billion in local, state, and federal taxes. Southern California: The Nation's Trade Hub The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach form the largest maritime trade complex in the United States and are the top economic engine in Southern California (see pg. 14). Despite their scale, both ports trail global competitors in efficiency and have steadily lost market share to Canadian, East Coast, and Gulf ports. Since the early 2000s, San Pedro Bay's share of Asian imports has fallen from about 55% to less than 40%, costing the region thousands of jobs and billions in economic output. Without decisive action, these losses will accelerate. Modern Terminals Deliver Results Modern terminals consistently outperform traditional facilities. On average, they are about 50% more efficient, moving more cargo per work hour while reducing vessel delays and truck congestion. During periods of supply chain stress, modernized terminals maintained fluid operations while older infrastructure struggled with severe backlogs. Investments in automation, digital cargo management, and next-generation equipment have also improved workplace safety by reducing heavy manual labor and streamlining workflows. Modern Ports Drive Economic Growth, Jobs, and a Cleaner Future The Economic Power of West Coast Ports West Coast ports are a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, serving as the gateway for more than one- third of American imports and connecting domestic exporters to global markets. Together, they support millions of American workers and generate roughly $2 trillion in economic activity – nearly 9% of national GDP. PMA member companies employ nearly 16,000 registered ILWU workers along with thousands of part-time workers. Since the introduction of advanced technology under labor agreements beginning in 2002, the ILWU workforce has grown by 50%, with productivity gains supporting higher volumes and some of the nation's best-paying union jobs. An automated straddle carrier moves a container at APM Terminals at the Port of Los Angeles.