Port Panama City, situated on Northwest Florida's Gulf Coast, is a key regional port managing over two million tons of cargo each year. It offers comprehensive terminal and handling services for a range of containerized, breakbulk, and bulk goods. The port plays a crucial role in supporting two on-site heavy manufacturing companies and several major manufacturers in the area.
The port is dedicated to enhancing its infrastructure, promoting international trade, and backing industrial growth initiatives at various levels. One of its significant projects has been the development of the East Terminal and the deepening of the East Channel and turning basin, with Phase One completed in 2020. Plans for Phase Two include additional warehouse space, berth enhancements, and turning basin capacity improvements.
In 2023, Port Panama City completed several capacity expansion projects to support long-term cargo growth. These include a new 20,000-ton capacity storage dome to handle an extra 300,000 tons of biomass exports annually. Other developments involve upgrades to the rail corridor linking the East Terminal to the Bay Line Railroad and creating 54 more acres of industrial sites at the Intermodal Distribution Center (IDC).
The port collaborates closely with regional economic development groups like the Bay County Economic Development Alliance and Florida’s Great Northwest. A modern IDC was established to encourage warehousing and distribution services. This facility aids in transferring bulk commodities between rail and truck while offering improved industrial sites for new businesses.
Port Panama City contributes $1.6 billion in economic value to the region, with activities related to port operations supporting 10,790 jobs across Florida.