Port of Brownsville Sets New Record with $12 Billion in Economic Activity

The Port of Brownsville reported a new record by reaching over $12 billion in economic activity by the close of 2023, a figure 400% higher than the $2 billion recorded in 2018, underscoring its vital role in the economy of the Rio Grande Valley and the state of Texas.

“The achievements of the Port of Brownsville are the result of dedicated efforts to foster a strong foundation for economic activity and industrial development. By prioritizing strategic infrastructure investments and nurturing partnerships, we’ve created a dynamic environment that attracts business and drives innovation,” said William Dietrich, Director and CEO of the Port, who revealed the results of the study conducted by Martin Associates.

The increase over the past five years, the port reported in a statement, is attributed to value-added economic activity.

In addition to value-added economic output, which includes processing, manufacturing, and distribution related to cargo, other significant financial benefits derived from port operations in 2023 include $876.7 million in direct business revenue and $733.2 million in local spending from wages of port-related employees.

Port activity is responsible for 66,212 jobs across the state. Personal income and local consumption expenditures from these jobs totaled $3.8 billion.

Direct, indirect, and induced jobs for the Rio Grande Valley totaled 10,028, generating $1.1 billion for the local economy.

The Port of Brownsville is a major industrial development hub, with over 230 companies doing business at the port. Key industries driving the port’s economic impact include steel, petroleum products, and other breakbulk commodities.

In 2023, the port reported a record total of 17.8 million tons of cargo movement, with 12.3 million tons of waterborne cargo and 5.5 million tons of non-waterborne cargo.

“The impact of the Port of Brownsville cannot be overstated. The port remains a cornerstone for the economic strength of the region and the entire state of Texas,” said Esteban Guerra, Chairman of the Brownsville Navigation District. “These significant numbers reflect our commitment to job creation, industrial growth, and contributing to the prosperity of the Rio Grande Valley.”

Future Projects

Key infrastructure projects shaping the port’s future include the Brazos Island Harbor Channel Improvement Project to deepen the navigation channel from 42 feet to 52 feet, and the development of a 118-acre shovel-ready industrial park.

The Martin Associates analysis was based on interviews with companies providing services to the cargo and vessels handled at the marine terminals of the Port of Brownsville. The impacts measured were jobs, employee earnings, business revenue, and state and local taxes. Non-waterborne activities and fishing harbor operations were not included in the report.