Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, Miami’s role extends well beyond tourism. The Magic City serves as a key gateway for air cargo, connecting the United States with Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond. At the heart of this economic growth is Miami International Airport (MIA), a key player in positioning Miami as the “Gateway of the Americas.”
Backbone of trade dominance
Miami International Airport (MIA) is a pillar of Miami’s success in international trade. Serving as a major artery for air cargo, MIA handles 82 percent of air imports and 76 percent of exports between the United States and Latin American/Caribbean regions. With over 90 airlines operating year-round, the airport has become a focal point for the pharmaceutical, telecommunications, industrial machinery, and tech industries, to name a few.
MIA’s infrastructure is equally impressive, featuring 17 warehouses and over 2.7 million square feet of storage space. Also noteworthy are the early 300 customs brokers, and more than 1,000 freight forwarders supporting this complex ecosystem. This seamless logistics environment solidifies MIA’s role as a key shipping hub for goods travelling between the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Expanding capacity
Miami-Dade County has approved a US$400 million investment to build a groundbreaking four-story cargo facility at Miami International Airport (MIA), increasing cargo capacity by 50 percent to up to 5 million tonnes annually by 2029. This Vertically Integrated Cargo Community (VICC) project is set to generate 8,500 temporary jobs, 2,500 permanent jobs and add US$600 million in wages and revenue. The facility will future-proof MIA until 2041 and boost local economic growth. Sustainable features, including LEED Silver certification, will further solidify Miami as a global shipping powerhouse.
Bridging hemispheres
As the largest international freight airport in the Americas, MIA commands the north-south cargo routes that dominate trade in the Western Hemisphere. Its geographical location is a massive asset, offering efficient distribution to and from Latin America and the Caribbean while also enabling strong connections to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
In recent years, trade between MIA and Asian markets has surged. Notably, in 2011, freight shipments between MIA and Asia grew by 8.7 percent, a trend that has only accelerated. This growth is driven by MIA’s ability to attract new routes to the Far East. That and the airport’s lack of slot restrictions or runway delays. This makes MIA a year-round destination for airlines seeking reliable operations across the world.
Perishable goods
One area where the City of Miami’s leadership is particularly evident is in the handling of perishables. MIA dominates the US market, with a whopping 89 percent of all flowers and 73 percent of fruit and vegetables that enter the country via Miami. Its proximity to agricultural giants in Latin America ensures quick and efficient transport that minimises spoilage.
To maintain this competitive edge, steady investments have been made in temperature-controlled facilities at MIA. These state-of-the-art refrigeration capabilities are vital not only for food but also for pharmaceuticals and biotech industries, giving MIA a key role of the global cold chain.
Preparing for the future
Miami’s reputation as a global trade hub is underpinned by its commitment to infrastructure expansion. Meanwhile, MIA’s cargo facilities grow to accommodate increasing volumes, integrating extensive road, rail, and sea connections, and allowing for the smooth flow of goods across the Americas.
Miami’s Free Trade Zones (FTZs) add yet another layer of logistical efficiency. These areas allow companies to store, process, and distribute goods while deferring customs duties until the products enter the domestic market. This cost-saving feature makes Miami an extremely attractive entry point for international companies looking to access the US market.
