(The Center Square) – Gov. Brian Kemp said Tuesday that he is traveling to Panama with a state delegation to discuss Georgia’s connectivity to the Panama Canal.
“The Panama Canal connects shipping routes with some of Georgia’s top business partners to Savannah and Brunswick, and we look forward to learning more about their operations as we continue to innovate and invest in our infrastructure at home,” Kemp said in a release.
Representatives from the Georgia Ports Authority, the Georgia Department of Economic Development and First Lady Marty Kemp are accompanying Kemp on the trip.
“Connectivity drives business, and the Panama Canal is a vital link in Georgia’s global network,” said Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “The strong flow of goods between Panama and our ports fuels investment, supports jobs, and keeps Georgia competitive.”
Georgia has deepwater ports in Savannah. The monthly volume at the Port of Savannah decreased by 8.4% in October compared to the previous year, but increased by 4% for the calendar year 2025, according to the Georgia Ports Authority’s monthly report.
The Port of Brunswick handled 3,700 more units of automobiles and heavy equipment in October, a 5.4% increase when compared to October 2024. The calendar year volume was down by 9%, according to the report.
Georgia is one of the top trading partners with Panama, said Griff Lynch, president and CEO of Georgia Ports Authority.
“The Panama Canal connects shipping routes with some of Georgia’s top business partners to Savannah and Brunswick, and we look forward to learning more about their operations as we continue to innovate and invest in our infrastructure at home,” Kemp said.
Trade missions, like the one to Panama are included in the state budget, Jessica Atwell, communications manager for the Georgia Department of Economic Development, previously told TCS in an email.
“These missions facilitate Georgia’s international connections that support thousands of jobs for Georgians through trade and investment,” Atwell said. “Economic development missions include a mix of meetings with companies already invested in or interested in investing in Georgia as well as relationship-building opportunities that support connectivity between Georgia and key markets for exports.”
