For centuries, seaports have served as a vital economic lifeline by bringing goods and services to people around the world. Seaports continue to be a critical link for access to the global marketplace. They generate trillions of dollars of economic activity and support the employment of millions of people. Seaports import and export more than 7.6 billion tons of cargo including food, clothing, medicine, fuel and building materials, as well as consumer electronics and toys throughout the Western Hemisphere each year. The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) and its members are committed to ensuring that seaports deliver prosperity and remain navigable, secure and sustainable.