South Carolina Ports Maintain Efficiency Amid Industry Downturn

### South Carolina Ports Maintain Efficiency Amid Industry Downturn **CHARLESTON, SC—Dec. 16, 2025**—As the maritime industry begins to feel the effects of a downturn, South Carolina Ports (SC Ports) remains committed to providing efficient operations and customized solutions to its customers. The Port of Charleston, known for its deep harbor and fluid berth operations, is positioned to support the supply chain needs of the Southeast region, even as container volumes decline. SC Ports President and CEO Micah Mallace emphasized the importance of reliability in his recent statement, noting, "SC Ports’ customers know that our port infrastructure is situated to handle long-term growth in the Southeast, while providing reliable, productive port service they need today." The port's depth of 52 feet allows for two-way vessel traffic, ensuring that cargo owners have fast access to Southeast markets regardless of tidal conditions. In November, SC Ports handled 197,942 TEUs, reflecting a 6% year-over-year decline, consistent with trends observed at other U.S. container ports. This downturn is significant as it highlights the challenges facing the maritime industry, particularly in light of shifting consumer demand and economic uncertainties. Despite this, SC Ports has reported strong intermodal performance, particularly at Inland Port Dillon, which recorded a remarkable 137% increase in rail moves year-over-year, totaling 4,466 in December. This facility, served by CSX, acts as a critical link for importers and exporters in the eastern Carolinas, showcasing SC Ports' adaptability in meeting customer needs. Conversely, Inland Port Greer experienced a predicted decline, with rail moves dropping by 33% year-over-year to 10,671. This mixed performance underscores the volatility in freight movement and the necessity for ports to remain agile in their operations. In addition to operational efficiency, SC Ports is also addressing security concerns through ongoing training initiatives. The Port Security Training Course, mandated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act, aims to equip personnel with the knowledge necessary to recognize and mitigate potential threats. This proactive approach is vital in safeguarding the maritime transportation system from potential terrorist activities, which could have catastrophic implications for local and global commerce. Moreover, SC Ports is committed to preserving Charleston's historical architecture, as evidenced by the recent completion of the restoration of the Bennett Rice Mill façade at Union Pier. This $1.6 million project not only stabilizes a significant historical structure but also aligns with SC Ports' goal of being a responsible community steward. The restoration is seen as a critical step in the revitalization of the waterfront property, which is expected to enhance the area's appeal and support future development. Lastly, SC Ports is enhancing its cold chain capabilities, crucial for handling temperature-sensitive cargo. The Port of Charleston's reefer handling operations are designed to be efficient and flexible, with no racking fees and expedited pick-up and delivery processes. This is particularly important for the agricultural and food sectors, which rely on timely and safe transportation of perishable goods. As SC Ports prepares for potentially weaker volumes into 2026, Mallace remains optimistic about the industry's stabilization. "We’re preparing to see weaker volumes continue into 2026 but remain hopeful that the industry will stabilize some time next year," he stated. The port's strategic focus on operational efficiency, security, historical preservation, and cold chain logistics positions it well to navigate the challenges ahead and continue supporting the Southeast's supply chain needs. For more information about SC Ports and its services, visit [South Carolina Ports Authority](https://scspa.com).