The American Association of Port Authorities will work with the Department of Commerce to help small and medium-sized businesses export goods to overseas markets, part of President Obama's goal of doubling U.S. exports.

Through a "memorandum of intent" signed with the International Trade Administration, AAPA will help ports develop and host workshops, seminars and other events aimed at helping business export. The AAPA and the trade agency also created a Web site for the partnership aimed at doubling exports by the end of 2014.

"We believe a collaborative approach between Commerce and America's seaports is the best way to ensure the success of this important national initiative," said Kurt Nagle, the AAPA's president and CEO.

But sending more U.S. goods abroad will mean some construction projects, Nagle said.

"As recognized by the Export Promotion Cabinet ... we must improve our transportation infrastructure to fully realize the potential gains from the NEI and to sustain U.S. international competitiveness," he said.

Source: JOC Sailings