WHAT IS THE GREATER HOUSTON PORT BUREAU?
The Greater Houston Port Bureau is a not-for-profit organization that facilitates domestic, intermodal, and international commerce to promote economic growth through domestic Texas Gulf seaports.
Founded in Houston in 1929 by civic and business leaders, the Bureau is a member-driven organization by which the many interests of the private sector port user and service provider are formulated and advanced through ongoing interaction with port authorities and other government entities at
city, county, state, and federal levels.
     
WHO ARE THE BUREAU MEMBERS?
With a membership and associated membership roster of nearly 500 entities, the Bureau involves itself with the commercial, technical, operational, and legislative concerns of the full range of port service provider and international trader.
The Bureau’s activities are closely linked with and supported by the West Gulf Maritime Association, the American Institute for International Steel’s Gulf Region, the Houston Customhouse Brokers and Freight Forwarders Association, The Greater Houston Partnership, The U.S. Gulf International Commerce Club, the Marine Exchange of the West Gulf, and regional Port Authorities and Pilot Associations.In addition, individual and corporate memberships reflect the major professions, educational establishments, and business enterprises of our region. With international commerce said to be responsible for one out of every three jobs in our area, and the Port of Houston’s Number One ranking as the country’s principal gateway for foreign commerce, the Bureau is recognized as a center for information, education, advocacy, and assistance in the ongoing development of a world-class commercial hub right here in the Texas Gulf.

WE INCORPORATE:

MEWG: Marine Exchange of the West Gulf
HCBFFA: Houston Customhouse Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association
USGICC: U.S. Gulf International Commerce Club
GHCA: Greater Houston Coffee Association
AATA: Animal Transport Association

The Texas Gulf International Shipper’s Council:
Ocean and intermodal rate negotiations and transportation services for shippers and cargo interests.
 
The Houston Center for Maritime Education
Integrating academic syllabuses with business requirements for an educated workforce at pre-entry and professional levels.
 
The Houston Chemical Tankers and Bulk Liquids Terminals Groups
Developing communication and cooperation opportunities to enhance safety, efficiency, and cost savings for parcel tankers in the ports of Houston and Texas City.
 
Intermodal Trucking Productivity and Environment Protection
Information systems for a more efficient landside intermodal connector system and the reduction in non-revenue road traffic.
 
Expert Witness Program
Technical and professional consultancy for maritime and commercial litigation and arbitration.
 
The Africa Initiative
Developing communications and contacts between Texas and Africa for the identification and execution of trading opportunities.
 
The Maritime Information Service of North America
Port Traffic and Ship Intelligence from ports in the USA and Canada.
 
Association Management Services
Luncheons, training programs, seminars, conventions, and administrative services for business associations and clubs.
 
Publications
“The Bulletin” (Greater Houston Port Bureau & The Marine Exchange of the West Gulf).“The Newsletter” (Houston Customhouse Brokers & Freight Forwarders Association).The Annual “Directory and Services Register.” 

LIST OF OFFICERS