Frozen poultry exports through Georgia Ports rose by 8.5% in the past year, with the Port of Savannah solidifying its role as the nation’s leading gateway for poultry shipments. This growth reflects both strong global demand and expanded cold chain infrastructure investments.
Rising Export Volumes
- Growth: Frozen poultry exports increased by 8.5% year-over-year, reaching 55,957 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) for the 12-month period ending in February.
- Comparison: This represents nearly 4,400 additional TEUs compared to the previous year.
- National Role: Georgia Ports handled 37% of all U.S. frozen poultry exports in 2025, underscoring its dominance in this sector.
Savannah: The Leading Gateway
- Capacity: The Port of Savannah features 3,600 powered slots for refrigerated containers, including 3,400 rack positions and 200 chassis slots.
- Volume: In 2025, exports totaled 54,000 TEUs, equivalent to 757,570 tons of poultry.
- Connectivity: Savannah connects to 40 ocean carrier services, offering the most direct trade routes of any South Atlantic or Gulf Coast port.
Infrastructure Expansion
- New Facility: A $49.25 million U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility opened at Garden City Terminal in February 2026.
- Doubles the size of the previous inspection station.
- Expands refrigerated inspection capabilities.
- Streamlines processes by eliminating off-site container trucking.
- Upcoming Additions: In June 2026, 4,000 square feet of refrigerated space will be added for chilled cargo inspections, with specialized temperature and sanitation controls.
Impact on Georgia’s Poultry Industry
- Regional Production: Poultry farming is concentrated in Hall, Franklin, Hart, and Madison counties in northeast Georgia, with Coffee County serving as a hub in the south.
- Logistics: Traditionally, exports move by truck, but the Gainesville Inland Port, opened May 4, 2026, now provides a direct rail link to Savannah, improving efficiency for North Georgia producers.
Industry Outlook
- Global Demand: Rising poultry consumption worldwide continues to drive export growth.
- Efficiency Goals: Georgia Ports Authority emphasizes predictable supply chains, cost efficiency, and sustainability.
- Future Prospects: With expanded cold chain infrastructure and direct rail access, Georgia Ports are positioned to further increase their share of U.S. poultry exports.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Georgia Ports’ 8.5% rise in frozen poultry exports highlights both the strength of global demand and the effectiveness of recent infrastructure investments. With Savannah’s expanded cold chain capacity and new inland rail connections, the region is well-positioned to sustain growth, reinforce its leadership in U.S. poultry trade, and deliver greater efficiency to producers and international markets alike.
Sources: Available upon request