
THE PORT OF SEATTLE FEATURES CHARACTERISTICS THAT SET IT APART FROM OTHERS IN THE U.S., SUCH AS HIGHLY MODERN INFRASTRUCTURE (Disclosure)
Located in the state of Washington, the ports of Seattle and Tacoma play an essential role in the U.S. economy. Separated by about 50 kilometers, they joined forces in 2015 to form the Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), a pioneering partnership that consolidated maritime cargo operations and increased competitiveness along the U.S. West Coast. The details of this alliance were presented yesterday to members of Missão Internacional Porto & Mar 2025, promoted by Grupo Tribuna, during a visit to the local Port Authority.
Together, the two ports handled 3.3 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) last year, ranking among the largest cargo gateways in the country, behind complexes like Los Angeles/Long Beach, New York/New Jersey, Savannah, and Houston. They also moved more than 337,000 vehicles throughout 2024, according to figures presented to the Brazilian delegation by Steve Balaski, Director of Business Development at NWSA.
Although part of the same alliance, Seattle and Tacoma have distinct characteristics that make them complementary. The Port of Seattle is known for its highly modern infrastructure and its commitment to technological innovation and sustainability. Its terminals are deep enough to accommodate large vessels. The port stands out for its use of shore power at cruise terminals, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

OPERATIONS IN SEATTLE WITH THE ICONIC MOUNT RAINIER IN THE BACKGROUND (AdobeStock)
The Port of Tacoma, in turn, is one of the largest deep-water ports in the United States. It is well connected to the rail network, served by three major rail companies. Both ports feature specialized terminals for containers, bulk cargo, automobiles, and heavy equipment. In addition, their strategic location ensures easy access to major interstate highways, allowing for efficient inland logistics throughout the U.S.
During the presentation to the Brazilian delegation, it was highlighted that NWSA’s main trading partners are, in order: China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and Taiwan. In terms of container volume, Brazil ranks 23rd. In terms of trade value, Brazil holds the 18th position, according to the 2024 report.
Investment and expansion
To modernize operations and ensure a sustainable future, Seattle and Tacoma have been receiving significant infrastructure investments.

TACOMA ENSURES EFFICIENT CARGO FLOW (AdobeStock)
The Port of Seattle, for instance, is developing a Maritime Innovation Center, a space dedicated to research and the development of new sustainable technologies for the port sector. Additionally, there are ambitious plans to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, through the implementation of green shipping corridors and the promotion of sustainable marine fuels.
The Port of Tacoma, meanwhile, has invested more than $160 million in environmental projects over the past 20 years. These initiatives include programs to improve air and water quality, as well as natural habitat restoration. Furthermore, rail capacity expansion and container terminal modernization are top priorities for the coming years.
Although the ports of Seattle and Tacoma share a joint administration and are strategically aligned, there are distinct differences between them. While Seattle is recognized for its innovation and environmental commitment, Tacoma is a more traditional port, focused on high-volume cargo movement and strong rail connectivity.
Ten years of formal alliance mark the relationship between the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, which together have become one of the most important port complexes in the U.S. 3.3 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) were handled by the ports of Seattle and Tacoma last year, according to NWSA.
Experience
Yesterday’s schedule was intense for the members of Missão Internacional Porto & Mar 2025. In addition to getting a firsthand look at the American port sector, they exchanged experiences with local authorities in Seattle and Tacoma, reviewed detailed cargo handling data, explored projects in technology, sustainability, and operations, spoke with local business leaders, and gained insights into opportunities successfully implemented in the United States that could be replicated upon returning to Brazil.
Tourist spot
Those visiting the fishing terminal in Seattle are impressed by the attractions that put the Port-City integration concept into practice. Even on a weekday like yesterday, the delegation witnessed heavy activity in the area. One of the most crowded spots was near the fishing vessel Wizard, made famous worldwide by the TV series Deadliest Catch, which has now aired for 20 seasons on the Discovery Channel.

(Missão Internacional Porto & Mar 2025)
Assuntos relacionados