Mexico Tampa Express Service Imports, Exports

The Tampa Port Authority announced that Zim American Integrated Shipping has launched a direct container service between Mexico and Tampa. The new Mexico Tampa Express Service (MTX) allows products to be imported and exported through Tampa using two of Zim's vessels.

"For the first time there will be direct connection between Mexico and Tampa, and there is significant volume of cargo moving in both directions, exports as well as imports that have no other choice today but to be trucked," says Wade Elliott, of the Tampa Port Authority. "What this will do is provide much more efficient routing, and will include consumer and perishable goods and industrial products, which will be a significant benefit for trade between Florida and Mexico as well as outside markets."

Once shipments arrive by sea by way of the MTX, the goods will be transported more efficiently as construction is underway on a new truck ramp as well as an elevated connector, which will provide direct access from the Port to I-4 and I-75. Construction on the ramp and connector are scheduled to be completed in 2013.

The economic impact of the implementation of the MTX will be felt beyond the Tampa Port Authority.

"The service will create jobs as there is more cargo, and it will allow exporters in Florida to be able to serve their customers more efficiently and grow their businesses," Elliott says.

Zim American Integrated Shipping expanded service in November of 2010, adding direct connections to Tampa from Brazil and Venezuela.

Writer: Kimberly Patterson
Source: Wade Elliott, Tampa Port Authority