Arlington, Virginia – The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is supporting the modernization of critical port infrastructure in the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), reinforcing the reliability of a key logistics hub in the Central Pacific and strengthening the enduring U.S.-RMI partnership. USTDA announced funding to provide technical assistance to the Marshall Islands Ports Authority (RMIPA) for the modernization of the ports of Majuro and Ebeye. The assistance will deliver a roadmap for expanded capacity, greater efficiency, and enhanced security at two of the country’s most vital points of entry.
“Modern, secure ports at Majuro and Ebeye will keep supply chains flowing for the Marshall Islands and its neighbors while advancing American trade and other strategic interests in the Central Pacific,” said Thomas R. Hardy, USTDA’s Deputy Director. “Today’s agreement reflects our shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, built on trusted partners and quality infrastructure.”
RMIPA has selected Washington, D.C.-based firm Valentine Enterprises LLC (Valent) to develop a comprehensive roadmap for implementing its recommendations on infrastructure upgrades, security needs, and facilitating commerce. The roadmap will help make the project investment-ready for financiers. Anticipated port upgrades will present opportunities for U.S. companies to deploy their engineering capabilities and port security innovations across equipment, digital systems, and construction materials.
The Marshall Islands relies on maritime trade, and modernized ports at Majuro and Ebeye will strengthen national supply chain reliability and economic resilience. Enhanced berthing infrastructure, container‑yards, and cargo-handling systems together with improved safety and security measures are expected to increase capacity and efficiency at both ports, benefiting not only RMI but also neighboring Pacific Island nations that rely on these ports as a key link in their shipping routes. These upgrades will help the Marshall Islands’ ports remain safe, efficient, and reliable gateways to the region.
Minister of Natural Resources and Commerce Tony Muller said: “Our objectives are clear: to develop modern, efficient, secure and resilient ports that strengthen our economy, support our communities and national interests, and contribute to the shared security and strategic objectives of the RMI and the United States.”
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The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is the U.S. government’s first mover on critical infrastructure development in emerging markets, advancing the shared strategic priorities of the United States and our overseas partners while creating opportunities to deploy trusted U.S. solutions. USTDA funds the upfront technical work that accelerates the development of infrastructure projects, helping them attract the financing they need for implementation and procurement of U.S. goods and services.
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