AAPA to focus on Asia Pacific trade lanes

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) will have some prominent shippers and rail partners sharing insights at its upcoming annual convention and expo.

While the AAPA meeting is always stimulating and informative, this year’s event at the Port of Seattle should be especially engaging. Given that it’s being staged on the West Coast alone is sufficient reason to attend, for industry analysts agree that the dynamism and complexity of the Asia Pacific transport and logistics market offers the best prospects for growth and returns.

Of special note, convention attendees will have the opportunity to hear about the important economic role of ports from Washington. State Governor Chris Gregoire will give the opening day keynote address, sharing his perspective on the global economy. Then shippers will learn of trade trends from Microsoft Corporation General Counsel and Senior Vice President Brad Smith.  Later in the week, the program will feature BNSF Chairman and CEO Matt Rose, who will speak on the value of, and challenges to, the global supply chain network.

The convention will conclude with a members-only annual meeting and installation of new officers for the Association’s upcoming fiscal year, including appointment of Virginia Port Authority Executive Director Jerry Bridges as chairman of the board for AAPA’s centennial year, 2011-2012.

Our guess is that ports in the gulf and eastern seaboard will be keen on collecting market intelligence on Asia sourcing strategies that include using “all water” routes by 2014.