The Port of Hueneme in California and the Port of Paita in Peru have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to form a Sister Port relationship under the U.S. Department of State’s Sister Ports Program. The agreement promotes collaboration, trade growth, and the exchange of best practices.
A Peruvian delegation visited Ventura County on October 13 to meet with Hueneme port leaders and local partners. The visit included port tours, roundtable talks, and strategic sessions focused on boosting trade and improving connectivity between the U.S. and Peru.
“Our relationship with Peru is important. We plan to strengthen it to create new benefits for both countries,” said Jess Ramirez, President of the Oxnard Harbor District.
The visit ended with a signing ceremony and dinner reception at the Channel Islands Maritime Museum. The event brought together port leaders including Kristin Decas, CEO of the Port of Hueneme, and Eduardo Cerdeira, CEO of Terminales Portuarios Euroandinos (Port of Paita).
“This Sister Port relationship reflects our shared goal to grow global cooperation and expand trade that supports local economies,” said Kristin Decas.
“This partnership marks a milestone. It opens new trade routes and strengthens maritime links between our ports,” added Eduardo Cerdeira.
The MOU focuses on improving transparency, sharing port management practices, and exploring new trade opportunities.
Peru is already the Port of Hueneme’s fourth-largest trading partner. The port is also the only West Coast facility certified for cold treatment of Peruvian blueberries.
Robert Hans, Senior Managing Director at IOS Partners, praised the partnership:
“We are confident this relationship will increase trade and cooperation between the ports and their communities.”
The Sister Ports Program promotes new business opportunities and stronger trade links between the U.S. and Peru. The Port of Hueneme also partners with Quetzal (Guatemala), Bolivar (Ecuador), and Ensenada (Mexico) through the program.
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