Port Of Hueneme and Port Bolivar Agreement

In an historic moment, the Port of Hueneme, California, and the Port of Bolivar, Ecuador, formalized their friendship by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding declaring their affirmation of a “Sister Port” relationship.  The Port of Hueneme is the west coast’s number one hub for the banana trade moving over 650,000 tons of bananas annually.  The Port of Bolivar serves as one of the Port of Hueneme’s largest trading partners in the transport of bananas, fruits and produce.   Today the Ports of Hueneme and Bolivar celebrate this relationship and further energized their commitment to work together and strengthen maritime commerce between the two ports and countries.  

Port of Hueneme Commission President Rooney remarked, “We are most pleased to cement our trade relationship with the Port of Bolivar with this Sister Port Agreement.  It creates a very strategic opportunity to increase trade and diverse exchanges for the mutual benefit of the communities our ports serve.”

"This is an historic day for the Ports of Bolivar and Hueneme, said Dick Vega Ecuador's Trade Commissioner.  "It means more opportunities for our local growers both big and small.” 

"This is an opportunity to strengthen both ports, improving their competitiveness by sharing knowledge and best practices." Said Maria Reyes Ecuador's Undersecretary for Foreign Trade Services

As part of the agreement, the two ports will share information and policies on a wide range of topics relevant to the development of facilities, training of personnel, engineering and technical services, security, supply chain logistics, protection of the environment, promotion of the banana industry, enhancement of trade and services.

The Port of Hueneme made the visit to the Port of Bolivar as part of its trade mission to Latin America. The trade mission promises to serve as a catalyst for increased trade by putting the Port in direct contact with global partners and existing and prospective customers.  Importantly, the Port’s trade mission aligns with President Obama’s “Look South Initiative,” a recent initiative launched to make U.S. companies aware of emerging trade opportunities in Latin America and understand the resources available to help them penetrate these markets.   

“Increasing exports is good for Ventura County’s business community, and the Port of Hueneme is an important partner for local companies looking to sell their goods in the global marketplace,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “The Port of Hueneme is a critical economic engine in Ventura County, and I strongly support programs like the National Economic Initiative that will allow it to continue to grow and thrive, and create more jobs in our community."

Port Director Kristin Decas stated, “As part of our “Look South” playbook we are exploring targeted market potentials and seeking the most productive Latin America connections.  The Port of Hueneme’s “Sister Port” agreement with the Port of Bolivar is key to this effort and promises to serve as a catalyst for commerce and opportunity.”