Port Wilmington plays a key role in economic development and international trade for the state. As North America’s largest banana port and a major gateway for imports of fresh fruit and produce, Port Wilmington has one of the largest refrigerated warehouse terminals in the United States standing at over 20 million cubic feet. With connections to major highways that include I-495, I-95, I-295, NJ Turnpike and the Pennsylvania Turnpike, and direct access to Norfolk Southern rail lines, importers and exporters in Delaware can reach one third of the country’s population within a day’s drive. Port Wilmington is located within a Foreign Trade Zone, creating significant tax advantages for certain types of import and export activity.
Additionally, port operator Enstructure recently announced a $635 million investment in a new container terminal just north of Port Wilmington, considerably expanding Delaware’s port capacity and aligning with global trade trends favoring larger vessels and consolidated shipments. The new container terminal is designed to handle larger New Panamax ships up to 45-ft in depth. Enhanced port facilities will also streamline logistics and reduce transit times, making Delaware an even more attractive destination for importers and exporters. This increased trade activity will not only boost Delaware’s economy but also contribute to the economic vitality of the entire Mid-Atlantic region.
