VMA Maritime Bulletin Vol. 89, Issue 5 by VAmaritime

2025 STATE OF THE PORT: RESILIENCE, VISION, AND CONTINUED GROWTH

NORFOLK, VA | The 2025 State of the Port events, hosted by both the Port of Virginia® and the Hampton Roads Global Commerce Council (HRGCC), delivered a clear message: Virginia’s ports remain resilient, forward-focused, and vital to the Commonwealth’s economic future.

Port of Virginia® CEO Stephen Edwards opened the address by acknowledging global trade volatility and tariff pressures. Despite a modest dip in container volumes, he noted that the Port continues to outperform peers and remains on track for long-term success thanks to disciplined investment and strong operational performance.

Virginia’s ports stand out among competitors for having the least exposure to reductions in Chinese imports, with less than 20% of the state’s overall volumes coming from China. This strategic positioning has provided Virginia with a natural buffer from the more significant impacts of tariffs and trade disruptions affecting other ports. While some ports are facing steep declines in volumes tied to China, Virginia’s diverse trade portfolio, with strong trade relationships across various global markets, has helped mitigate the impact of fluctuations in

Chinese trade. This advantage allows Virginia to maintain stable operations and continue its growth trajectory, even in the face of evolving global trade dynamics.

TARIFF PAUSE UNLOCKS CHINESE IMPORTS

NORFOLK, VA | The recent 90-day pause on U.S. tariffs targeting Chinese imports is expected to deliver a surge of cargo at U.S. ports as shippers rush to capitalize on the temporary reduction of tariffs. According to data from FreightWaves, container bookings from China to the U.S. East Coast jumped 39.3% in the weeks following the announcement. For the Port of Virginia®, this surge represents a familiar pattern—one seen in prior trade flareups—as importers move quickly to get goods into the country ahead of possible new duties. In a May 12 CNBC interview, Port of Virginia® CEO Stephen Edwards acknowledged the immediate benefits of the tariff pause

Photo: Virginia Port Authority

Continue Reading on Page 4

Photo: Virginia Port Authority

“The Voice of Port Industries”

OFFICERS

Chair of the Board

Judy Barrett

President Lang Williams

Vice Presidents

Capt. Kenneth Flowers

Capt. Whiting Chisman

Camille Cherry

Executive Director & Secretary

David White

Treasurer Dana Truxell

Assistant Treasurer

Clyde Clark

STAFF

Senior Vice President ................. Will Fediw

Vice President of Finance & Administration ....................... Sam Davis

Director of Membership Development .......................... Kristen Greene

Workforce Development

Director................................... Shayla Prince

Executive Assistant ................... Chanel Bolling

Marketing Manager ................. Jennifer Deason

Event Manager & Accounting Assistant ............. Jennifer Parham

Membership Services

Manager ........................... Susan Wisniewski

For Questions about the Bulletin or Advertising jdeason@vamaritime.com - 757.628.2667 The

VMA COMMITTEE UPDATES

Cargo Owners

2/13/2025

The committee discussed the adverse effects of newly imposed tariffs on businesses and the challenges in ocean freight impacting commerce. Ongoing discussions about the slow resumption of Suez Canal transit and the potential for using technology to enhance cargo movement.

Inland Transportation

2/25/2025

The meeting featured updates from the Pier Committee regarding truck traffic infractions, emphasizing the possibility of harsher penalties and limitations if the problems continue. The recent Virginia General Assembly session and the debate around its legislative outcomes— such as tax reform and rules impacting the trucking industry— were discussed. A brief update was given on the Port of Virginia’s operations and market share.

Education and Training

4/3/2025

Kenneth Flowers of Moran Norfolk has joined Larry Belcher as CoChair of the Education and Training Committee, which will support the second year of the Green Run Collegiate Academy Summer Bridge Program. The Committee will provide two Leadership classes at Virginia Wesleyan University and organize six Maritime Tours for students at various local companies. Additionally, they are working on an initiative to hire individuals trained by the Hampton Roads Workforce Council’s Regional Maritime Training System, with an execution plan in development and a meeting scheduled for June.

Port Security

4/3/2025

The committee received updates on cybersecurity standards related to DOD contracts and maritime operations. More talks about drone technology, regulations, and reporting guidelines for drone sightings, emphasizing the challenges and unintended use of various drone platforms. A brief overview of the VMA’s PAC, statewide chapters, advocacy initiatives, and newly passed state drone legislation.

Towing and Barge

4/23/2025

The meeting covered the completion of repairs on the Beltline Railroad bridge and discussed the upcoming closures of the NS#7 Bridge and the Beltline Bridge, raising concerns within the Harbor Safety Committee. VMA provided legislative updates, while the USCG emphasized the importance of maintaining operational continuity and addressing issues with Certificates of Inspection (COI) due to mail service disruptions. Additionally, there was ongoing discussion regarding the Towing Vessel Safety Seminar.

Freight Forwarder and Custom House Brokers

5/13/25

The committee reviewed presentations on the current freight market and recent tariff impacts, discussing issues with carrier capacity and the effects of a 90day tariff pause. There were also discussions on planning, forecasting, and trade lane impacts. Additionally, updates on VMA activities and the new membership structure implementation.

DATA INTEGRATION’S ROLE IN DRIVING INNOVATION IN SUPPLY CHAIN & MARITIME

In today’s rapidly evolving supply chain and maritime industries, data integration is a crucial driver of innovation. As global trade becomes more complex, organizations must streamline operations, enhance visibility, and improve efficiency. These advancements, however, are only possible when disparate data sources can communicate seamlessly. The integration of data across stakeholders – shippers, carriers, ports, freight forwarders, truckers, technology providers and more – allows for real-time decision-making, predictive analytics, and greater operational efficiency. Without it, organizations face inefficiencies, higher costs, and a lack of transparency that hampers growth.

One of the biggest challenges to effective data integration is the lack of standardized data formats and communication protocols across the industry. Different players use different systems, often creating data silos that prevent interoperability. To address this, data standards play a critical role in supporting integration by providing a common framework for information exchange. Industry-recognized standards, such as those developed by the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA) and the Freight Logistics Optimization Works (FLOW) within the U.S. Department of Transportation, help ensure that systems can communicate efficiently, regardless of the underlying technology.

Emerging standards are enabling businesses to harness AIdriven insights, automation, and blockchain applications to fuel innovation and strengthen supply chain resilience. In the meantime, companies like Norfolk-based Splice bridge the gap by creating interoperability through integration and data translation, empowering organizations to connect with the data sources and destinations that drive efficiency and automate processes today.

As a leading industry organization, the Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) is positioned to advocate for and support data standards that benefit its members, the state of Virginia, and the broader maritime industry. By fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, VMA can serve as a unifying voice to promote the adoption of common data standards that enhance

operational efficiencies and competitiveness. This advocacy can take several forms, including working with policymakers to encourage regulatory frameworks that promote interoperability, facilitating industry-wide discussions on best practices, and providing educational resources to help businesses adopt standardized solutions.

These activities are inherent to the VMA today, and recognizing the transformative power of technology and innovation, the VMA has launched the Supply Chain Technology & Innovation (SCTI) Committee. This committee will harness the knowledge and expertise of its member companies to foster innovation, enhance collaboration, and position Virginia at the forefront of maritime and supply chain advancements. Data integration and interoperability is just one of many issues where the SCTI Committee can play a positive role in the industry.

Virginia’s strategic role as a key maritime hub makes the VMA an ideal leader in driving technology and innovation. The ecosystem of institutions, companies and organizations extends across the state, and by working alongside a vast array of industry participants, the VMA can help establish Virginia as a leader in digital transformation within the maritime sector.

Innovation is a strategic imperative for the future of the supply chain and maritime industries. Through a commitment to collaboration embodied in the SCTI Committee, the VMA can play a critical role in shaping a more efficient, innovative, and globally competitive maritime sector

Contributor: Kevin Spears

CEO and Co-Founder

SPLICE

VMA SCTI Committee Chair

The “Navigating Innovation” column features industy expert insights from VMA’s Supply Chain Technology & Innovation (SCTI) committee.

We invite all VMA members to submit content for our publications and propose ideas for in-person or virtual presentations that enhance our community’s knowledge. Submissions should be timely, educational, and relevant to the general membership or specific groups. Articles should be 400-600 words, with highresolution images or infographics encouraged. All sourced materials must be properly credited. Please note, content should focus on sharing expertise, not business promotion. For submission guidelines, please contact us. Let’s continue to elevate our community through impactful contributions.

Photo: Koegelenberg/AdobeStock Photo

STATE OF THE PORT CONT.

As a Platinum Sponsor, VMA was proud to support both events and amplify its longstanding mission to promote and protect port commerce. Representing more than 460 member companies, VMA continues to play a critical role in advocating for major infrastructure improvements, regional economic development, and workforce sustainability.

The HRGCC State of the Port also recognized excellence in the industry, awarding the 2025 Commerce Builder Award to Roger Giesinger of the Hampton Roads Shipping Association. Giesinger was honored for his leadership and decades of service advancing maritime labor partnerships and supporting the region’s continued growth as a global logistics hub.

Sustainability emerged as a major theme throughout the events. The Port of Virginia® celebrated becoming the first major East Coast port powered entirely by clean energy—achieving this milestone eight years ahead of its original 2032 goal. Additionally, the arrival of monopile foundations at the Portsmouth Marine Terminal marked a significant step in supporting Dominion Energy’s Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind project.

Virginia’s ports continue to be a powerful economic engine— supporting over 730,000 jobs and generating $8.1 billion in state and local tax revenue annually. These numbers are a reminder that our maritime industry drives opportunity throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.

As we look to the future, the 2025 State of the Port reaffirmed a strong trajectory: strategic investments, clean energy leadership, and collaborative advocacy are ensuring Virginia’s ports remain

TARIFFS CONT.

but emphasized that uncertainty remains the prevailing theme in maritime trade. “We’re seeing cargo being pulled forward,” said Edwards. “There’s a level of volatility that makes long-term planning difficult for both ports and cargo owners.”

Despite this unpredictability, Virginia’s port infrastructure is proving once again to be a strength. With modernized terminals, uncongested berths, and dual Class I rail access, the Port of Virginia® is well-positioned to handle demand surges. The port’s carbon-free operations, achieved eight years ahead of schedule, are also earning it favor among sustainability-minded shippers.

The impact of this temporary tariff relief extends beyond the port gates. Increased container volumes support jobs and business activity throughout the Commonwealth—from marine terminals in Hampton Roads to warehouses, trucking companies, and logistics hubs across Central and Southwest Virginia.

The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA), which represents over 460 companies in Virginia’s maritime supply chain, has been closely tracking the tariff discussions and advocating for trade policies that provide long-term stability. While the cargo increase is welcome, the tariff pause underscores the need for a more predictable policy environment. Our members—from importers and terminal operators to freight forwarders and rail providers— need confidence to invest and grow.

Edwards echoed this sentiment in his remarks, noting that while short-term gains are helpful, they cannot substitute for sustained growth. “What we want is steady demand. Trade is like a heartbeat. You want it to be rhythmic, not erratic,” he said on CNBC.

For now, the Port of Virginia® is maximizing this 90-day window. Cargo owners are moving goods quickly, and supply chain partners are responding in kind. However, with the tariff pause set to expire later this summer, concerns persist about what happens next if negotiations between the U.S. and China falter.

In the meantime, Virginia’s maritime industry continues to lean into its competitive advantages: deep channels, efficient terminals, clean energy leadership, and a unified voice through VMA advocacy. Whether the current cargo wave continues or recedes, the Commonwealth remains committed to being a strategic and stable gateway for global commerce.

As stakeholders across Virginia look ahead, the message is clear: leverage the present, prepare for what’s next, and continue building a maritime economy that can weather any policy shifts.

L-R: David White, Shayla Prince, Jennifer Parham, Will Fediw, and Kristen Greene, VMA

L-R: Dr. David Cook, ODU and Roger Giesinger

DISTRIBUTION OF COAL DUMPINGS

PORT OF HAMPTON ROADS TEU’S

CUSTOMS RECEIPTS

Source:U.S. Customs and Border Protection VIRGINIA CUSTOMS DISTRICT

VMA CONNECTING MEMBER BUSINESSES WITH WORKFORCE

The Virginia Maritime Association (VMA) is positioned to help lead the charge in workforce development, supporting Virginia’s growing maritime economy through targeted programs, partnerships, and strategic advocacy. As the maritime industry evolves with technological advancements and emerging sectors like offshore wind, VMA’s efforts will help ensure a skilled and adaptable workforce.

A cornerstone of this progress is our partnership with the Hampton Roads Workforce Council in support of the Regional Maritime Training System* (RMTS). The Regional Maritime Training System (RMTS) is a collaborative initiative designed to streamline maritime education and job readiness. Developed in partnership with the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, this system provides a structured pathway for individuals seeking careers in shipbuilding, port operations, logistics, and offshore wind energy. It connects industry needs with workforce training, ensuring job seekers are equipped with in-demand skills.

For the VMA’s partnership with the HR Workforce Council to be successful, we need YOU, our members who have entry level positions for newly trained RMTS incumbents to let us know. If your organization is hiring, please contact Shayla Prince, Workforce Development Director at shayla@vamaritime.com or 757-226-9193.

Contributor: Shayla Prince

Workforce Development Director Virginia Maritime Association

*The Regional Maritime Training System (RMTS) was established using a $11 million (41%) Good Jobs Challenge Grant awarded by the Economic Development Administration. It is supported by $12.1 million (46%) provided through BlueForge Alliance in partnership with the U.S. Department of the Navy, $850,000 (3%) from the U.S. Department of Labor/ETA -

ASSOCIATION IN ACTION

Simply stated, active VMA members are Better Connected, Better Informed, and Better Represented. This segment of the Bulletin aims to provide insights into some of the ways in which the interests of VMA members were Better Represented during the previous month.

With a rapidly shifting federal policy environment directly affecting VMA’s membership, much of April was spent advocating for our members’ interests in areas such as tariffs, reductions in the federal workforce, offshore wind, port call fees on operators of Chinese-built ships, and investments in shipbuilding.

Collaboration and strong relationships with policy makers and partner organizations are being leveraged to help our industry weather challenges and capitalize on opportunities resulting from the policy priorities of a new administration. VMA is holding and participating in a steady cadence of information sharing and strategic discussions with regional partners, state leaders, and Congressional members and staff.

One area commanding much attention is President Trump’s executive order and legislation known as the SHIPS for America Act. Both seek to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding and broader maritime sector, where Virginia is well positioned to be a leader and beneficiary. VMA encouraged support from the Virginia congressional delegation for the SHIPS for America Act on the condition that language which would be detrimental to our ship repairers is properly addressed.

VMA also had the opportunity to engage in dialogue with Gubernatorial candidate Winsome Earle-Sears in a meeting

organized by the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable.

VMA was honored and privileged to help break ground on the LS GreenLink subsea cable manufacturing plant and pier on the banks of the Southern Branch of the Elizabeth River, the largest economic development project in the history of Chesapeake. VMA was similarly honored to help cut the ribbon celebrating the opening of Amazon’s newest delivery station in Virginia Beach, the first in Virginia with EV charging infrastructure.

Other notable events and meetings in which VMA made presentations or represented the membership included:

• Virginia Tech Center Research Park Advisory Board

• Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) Advisory Committee on International Trade

• Virginia Port Authority Stakeholders Committee

• Shenandoah Valley Partnership

• Virginia Agricultural Trade Conference

• Hampton Roads Workforce Council’s Maritime Careers Application Fest

• Hampton Boulevard Advisory Taskforce

• Oceantic Network International Partnering Forum (offshore wind)

• VEDP’s Exporting from SWVA: Growing Export Sales through Partnerships

• Area Maritime Security Committee

NEW MEMBER

Mr. Rishi Parti Director rishi@infox.com

ADDITIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

BANK OF AMERICA

Norfolk, VA

Cassie Harris, Vice President cassie.r.harris@bofa.com

Michael Lyster, SVP michael.lyster@bofa.com

Erwin Padilla, Relationship Manager erwin.d.padilla@bofa.com

CAPES SHIPPING AGENCIES

Norfolk, VA

Monroe Forehand, Operations Agent mforehand@capeshipping.net

Kostiantyn Kolotylenko*, Shipping Agent kkolotylenko@capesshipping.net

Alex Stranko, Boarding Agent astranko@capesshipping.net

Contact Kristen Greene kristen@vamaritime.com

Dwayne White*, Operations Agent dwhite@capesshipping.net

*Young Maritime Professionals

Christian Rains, Relationship Manager

christian.s.rains@bofa.com

Lee Robbins, Portfolio Manager lee.t.robbins@bofa.com

Utomwen Uduaghan, Assistant Vice President utomwen.uduaghan@bofa.com

Courtney Yates, Trust Senior Associate courtney.yates@bofa.com

COLLIERS

Tysons Corner, VA

Clay Ellis* clay.ellis@colliers.com

Richmond McDaniel*, Associate richmond.mcdaniel@colliers.com

Rob Stockhausen, Managing Director rob.stockhausen@colliers.com

INTRACOASTAL MARINE LLC

Chesapeake, VA

Courtney Johannes* courtney@icmtugs.com

VMA25 —FORWARD CONFIRMS LEADING MARITIME AND TRADE EXPERTS

Join us October 14–16 to hear from leading voices as we chart the course for the future of the maritime industry at VMA25: International Trade Symposium—Forward. And stay tuned for agenda updates and more speaker announcements!

Confirmed VMA25 speakers include Peter Friedmann, Executive Director, Agriculture Transportation Coalition, Jonathan Gold, VP, Supply Chain & Customs Policy, National Retail Federation, Renee Haltom, VP and Regional Executive, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Lars Jensen, CEO, Vespucci Maritime, Takashi Masuda, President, Ocean Network Express (North America, Stuart Sandlin, President, Hapag-Lloyd and Nissim Yochai, President, ZIM USA.

At VMA25, we’re navigating global shipping, trade, and logistics through economic shifts, regulatory changes, and technological

advancements. It’s time to move Forward with confidence, embracing proactive strategies and future-focused leadership.

Our symposium will delve into AI’s role in supply chain optimization, effective tariff management, and insights into ocean contracts. We’ll discuss sustainability, safety, transatlantic trade, cargo security, carrier alliances, and economic forecasts for 2026.

Don’t miss keynote presentations, panel discussions, , and signature networking events like the Maritime Mixer and Golf Open. Early Bird and Shipper Discounts are available—secure your place today and lead the charge toward a resilient, innovative maritime industry.

For more information and to register, visit VMAsymposium.com. Let’s move forward together at VMA25!

P.O. Box 3487

Norfolk, Virginia 23510