Port and business leaders discuss Panama Canal widening

Port of Charleston

Business leaders are gathering in Charleston today to get an update on the effects the Panama Canal widening would have on the Port of Charleston. The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce is hosting the forum that will have members of the South Carolina delegation who recently visited Panama. They will speak on the significance the Panama Canal expansion would have on the Charleston port. State Ports Authority President and CEO Jim Newsome and Mary Graham with the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce will be among the speakers at the meeting.

 The State Ports Authority says the widening of the Panama Canal would bring more opportunities for international trade because larger cargo ships would be able to transport more goods, bringing in more business. The Port of Charleston is also considering a widening project that would allow larger ships into the port.