NAFTZ Conference 2025 Highlights Vital Role of U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones

NAFTZ 2025 Conference: A Reflection on U.S. Trade Zones' Significance

Earlier this month, the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ) hosted its annual conference in Kansas City, Missouri. The event attracted over 530 attendees, marking a significant participation increase, with nearly a third being newcomers to the Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) program. This surge in attendance underscores the growing interest in U.S. FTZs, which play a crucial role in the economic landscape by facilitating trade and creating jobs.

The U.S. FTZ program, established in the 1930s during the Great Depression, aims to enhance the nation’s competitive edge in global markets while generating employment opportunities domestically. Today, there are more than 1,300 active FTZ operations across all states and Puerto Rico. In 2023 alone, these zones supported approximately 550,000 jobs and contributed significantly to exports, with nearly $150 billion worth of goods shipped overseas.

The conference featured five specialized content tracks catering to various aspects of the FTZ program. Attendees could participate in discussions on essential topics, including operational responsibilities, petroleum sector insights, compliance updates, and economic decisions affecting the zones. Among the many sessions, key highlights included discussions on the future of U.S. FTZs, operational best practices, and case studies showcasing how regions utilize FTZs to stimulate investments and bolster supply chain resilience.

Throughout the sessions, industry leaders emphasized the importance of adapting to an ever-evolving trade landscape characterized by shifting tariffs and global trade dynamics. The conference provided a unique platform for both seasoned experts and new participants to share insights and best practices, reinforcing the FTZ program's relevance in today's economic climate.

In his remarks, Jeff Tafel, NAFTZ president, reflected on the enduring value of the U.S. FTZ program, stating, "Nearly a century after its creation, the U.S. FTZ program continues to deliver measurable benefits, helping exporters, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers improve cash-flow management and stay competitive in a volatile global economy."

The conference also marked a shift in leadership for NAFTZ, with the announcement of the newly elected Board of Directors. The fresh leadership includes notable figures such as William Cawthern of Baltimore Development Corporation and Danielle Converse from the Port of Corpus Christi. Among these appointments, Katie Tangman has been positioned as NAFTZ's new Board Chair, bringing with her a vision of advocacy and growth for the FTZ community.

Notably, this year’s appointments included an all-female Executive Committee, a historic first for the organization. The members include Vice-Chair Patricia Cannon, Treasury Leigh Ryan, and Secretary Diana Urelius, all of whom are poised to advance the association's mission further.

As the NAFTZ continues to advocate for the Foreign-Trade Zone program, it remains dedicated to fostering a competitive economic environment in the U.S. For further insights and information regarding U.S. Foreign-Trade Zones, interested parties are encouraged to visit the NAFTZ website at www.naftz.org.

The successful execution of this conference marks a significant step toward enhancing the visibility and engagement of the FTZ program. The continued support and strategic discussion initiated during the event are sure to resonate within the trade community and beyond, paving the way for future growth and success in U.S. foreign trade initiatives.