More than 400 people attended the third annual JOC Gulf Shipping Conference hosted by Port Houston and organized by The Journal of Commerce and parent company IHS Markit, April 16-18.

The attending professionals discussed shipping trends and the efficiency and importance of commerce moving through U.S. Gulf ports. The event provided an in-depth look at the latest trends, problems and solutions emerging for cargo owners importing and exporting through the Gulf.

“With the ongoing growth of the population in Houston and along the Gulf Coast, the amount of cargo moving through our ports is only going up,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, who provided welcome remarks. The amount of industry activity on the Gulf Coast also presents opportunities for the growth of international trade and business.

“It is an exciting time for the industry along the Gulf Coast, which is engaged in positive change and growth, and everyone is working hard to ensure that we stay ahead of the curve,” Port Chairman Janiece Longoria said during a recent Port Commission meeting. “We are thrilled to host this two-day conference and the business that it brings to our region.”