The Florida Ports Security and Technology Conference comes at a critical time

Florida’s 15 public seaports have long played a critical role as engines for the nation’s economy and trade status. At the same time, Florida maritime activities account for approximately 13 percent of Florida’s Gross Domestic Product while contributing $4.2 billion in state and local taxes.

As LM reported recently, the nationally recognized investment consultancy Fitch Ratings LTD has given these ocean cargo gateways the highest of bond ratings, based on their “resliancy.”

“The economic recovery in Florida continues to accelerate, having emerged slowly at first from the national recession,” observes Fitch senior director, Karen Krop. “A resumption of population growth and stronger economic expansion provides the basis for relatively strong growth prospects….”

Other analysts note that with a re-alignment of global trade routes, many Florida ports are strategically positioned to take maximum advantage of this opportunity while they continue to benefit from the newly-expanded Panama Canal.

It is little wonder then, that the Florida Ports Council should also be playing host to an event that addresses the most urgent concerns of all logistics managers reliant on ocean cargo.

The Florida Ports Security and Technology Conference, taking place September 12 and 13 in Orlando, Florida, will provide an exclusive platform for major seaport security operators and world-renowned solution providers to come together and explore ways to harness and optimize protection systems. The conference will delve into challenges within port security operations and offer a fresh overview of issues faced in today’s technology-driven security solutions.

You can register for The Florida Ports Security and Technology Conference here.

Intensive workshops will cover overcoming challenges such as illegal entry, terrorism, human trafficking, weapon smuggling and cyber security threats on seaports, as well as the effect of these activities on global port performance.

• Understanding the Regulations and Uses of Unmanned Aerial Systems
• Cyber Security Infrastructure in Today’s Maritime Environment
• Integration of Federal, State and Local Security Efforts at Seaports and Beyond

In addition to workshops, business development and networking opportunities will be available with decision makers and industry leaders within the global port security industry.

It is interesting to note that the timing of the event could not be better.  Eight out of eleven of the state’s cargo ports increased tonnage, the Florida Ports Council informed in its Florida Seaports: High Performance – 2017-2021 Five-Year Florida Seaport Mission Plan.

But the council is wise not to become complacent. Indeed, in a cautionary statement they observe that all seaports are targets for potential unauthorized access, sabotage activities, terrorist threats, piracy, cargo theft and smuggling:

“It is vital that ports are given critical infrastructure and utilize implement-proven port security and surveillance strategies and technologies in order to maintain safe and secure operations.”