INDUSTRY INSIGHTS
Port updates Modernizing, decarbonizing and building resilience across the Pacific
F rom Alaska to Hawai‘i, California, Guam and Taiwan, ports across the Pacific are advancing major infrastructure projects while responding to changing trade patterns, climate risks, energy transition and evolving security challenges. The Port Update session at APP’s 112 th Annual Conference highlighted investments ranging from new terminals, berths and rail infrastructure to zero-emission equipment, smart-port technologies and
cybersecurity. Speakers also emphasized the importance of federal and state funding, public-private partnerships and long-term planning as ports work to strengthen their infra- structure and remain competitive. Together, the updates demonstrated how Pacific ports are not simply rebuilding and expanding — they are using today’s projects to create more resilient, efficient and sustainable gateways for the future.
Taiwan International Ports advances infrastructure, smart technology and green energy
T aiwan International Ports Corporation (TIPC) is expanding and modernizing its seven international ports as demand for cargo, cruise activity and new energy infrastructure continue to grow. Representing TIPC, Mr. Jerry Su, Manager of TIPC’s Investment Department, highlighted major infra- structure investments, including reconstruction of Container Terminals 3 and 5 and development of the new Terminal 7 at the Port of Kaohsiung. The terminals are designed to accom- modate vessels of up to 24,000 TEUs and serve major international carriers. “We are also currently doing reclama- tion projects at the Ports of Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung for a total 1,000 hectares,” Su said. Looking at TIPC’s cruise activity, Su reported a strong rebound to activ- ity in 2025 with 567 cruise calls and approximately one million passengers — a nearly 30 percent increase over 2024 and a post-pandemic record. Smart port technologies have been a priority for the TIPC. Through the launch of their “Trans-Smart Plan”, TIPC is developing smart ports through the use of technologies such as IoT, 5G, digital twins and AI with the
gradually to prepare the country for an energy transition — enhance- ments to port infrastructure is aimed at supporting these initiatives. “These include the offshore wind industry and other green energy and alternative fuels development including biofuel, LNG, methanol, bunkering services and as well as future potential new energies like hydrogen and ammonia,” he said. “We are currently undertaking research and evaluation with potential developers to determine feasibility.” Su ended by noting that the TIPC’s goal is to build a comprehensive new energy ecosystem within Taiwan’s ports.
goal of making daily operations safer and more efficient. In early 2026, an AI-powered vessel monitoring system was successfully deployed across all seven international commercial ports. “By integrating AI-powered image recognition technology, we have trans- formed traditional passive patrols into an automated early warning system,” Su said. Finally, Su touched on TIPC’s goal to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. “This is aligned with the Taiwan government’s energy policy,” he said, adding that the government has been implementing many measures
Jerry Su and Chun-Fu Lin, Taiwan International Ports Corporation.
12 — PACIFIC PORTS — October 2026
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