Petrochemical, maritime and logistics professionals joined together for the annual Gulf Coast Industry Forum organized by Economic Alliance Houston Port Region Sept. 19 and 20.

The two-day conference provides regional forecasts, outlooks, concerns and opportunities in the industries along the Houston Ship Channel.

Port Chairman Janiece Longoria provided the keynote address on day one of the conference. “2017 was another record year for Port Houston’s performance. Representing nearly 80% of Port Houston’s gross revenue, containerized cargo continued to be our fastest-growing business line,” said Longoria.

The port continues to be the dominant port of export for synthetic resins, including polyethylene that is exported in containers. Population growth is driving goods.

Port Houston Executive Director Roger Guenther served on a freight transportation panel along with Harris County, the Texas Department of Transportation and Jetco Delivery Co.

“Efficient movement of freight is critical to our region and across the state,” said Guenther. More than 6,000 trucks move through the port’s container terminals a day, he noted.

Brian Fielkow, president of Jetco Delivery Co. lauded Port Houston’s emphasis on the truck gates at its container terminals.

“The investment that the port has made in technology is remarkable,” Fielkow said.

Throughout the event, various legislative, petrochemical and workforce sessions were held.

The conference was held at the Pasadena Convention Center.