FTZ 29 closes 2024 with record growth across jobs, investment and trade
The Louisville Riverport Authority’s Foreign‑Trade Zone #29 (FTZ 29) marked one of its strongest years on record in 2024 — driving job creation, accelerating inbound investment and strengthening Kentucky’s position in global trade. The newly released annual highlights show the zone’s expanding impact across manufacturing, logistics and international commerce.
A Strong Year for Jobs and Employer Growth
In 2024, FTZ 29 supported 25,072 direct jobs across its operators and users, including 23,547 manufacturing jobs and 1,495 warehouse jobs. Major employers such as Toyota Motor Manufacturing, GE Appliances, AstraZeneca, and North American Stainless continued to anchor the zone’s workforce and economic footprint.
Inbound Activity Surges to $21.1 Billion
Total inbound receipts — foreign and domestic — reached $21.1 billion, reflecting growing confidence in FTZ 29’s advantages. With those goods, $19 billion in product was created in the FTZ, with $16.6 billion made for U.S. consumption. Outbound transfers of foreign goods grew by 102% year‑over‑year.
These inflows were boosted by strong performance from existing manufacturers and the continued ramp-up of new subzones and production authorities approved in recent years.
Re‑Exports Hit $1.4 Billion, Led by Vehicles & Parts
FTZ 29 recorded $1.4 billion in re‑exports, with vehicles and parts alone accounting for $1.06 billion shipped overseas— reinforcing the region’s status as an automotive hub. Warehouse operators contributed a record-setting $94.9 million in re‑exports, the highest in more than ten years.
Top manufacturers driving outbound trade included Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, and Hitachi Astemo Americas.
Significant Year‑Over‑Year Growth
Compared to 2023, FTZ 29 posted major gains across nearly every metric:
- +27% increase in re‑exports
- +6% rise in overall receipts
- +7% increase in withdrawals into U.S. commerce
FTZ 29 Continues to Lead Kentucky’s Global Trade
FTZ 29 remains the backbone of Kentucky’s FTZ export activity, accounting for 82% of all FTZ exports statewide. This dominant share has held steady across recent years, underscoring the zone’s central role in the Commonwealth’s international competitiveness.
A Powerful Tool for Companies
FTZ 29 is administered by Louisville Riverport Authority and offers a powerful set of tools to manage costs, streamline supply chains and compete more effectively in a global market. The designated area allows companies to import, store, manufacture or re-export products with reduced, deferred or no duties until they enter U.S. commerce. Read more about FTZ 29 here.
Looking Ahead
With new subzones, increased production authority requests and widening interest from global manufacturers, FTZ 29 is well positioned for continued expansion in 2025 and beyond. The growing pipeline signals strong confidence from both existing operators and new entrants seeking cost savings and supply chain advantages.
As companies look for ways to compete in a global marketplace, FTZ 29 continues to offer measurable financial benefits, and a strategic home base for investment, export growth and high‑value job creation.
The data and analysis in this report is based on information submitted by Zone Operators in their Foreign-Trade Zone Board Annual Reports. Accordingly, the accuracy of this presentation is dependent on the accuracy and completeness of the information provided in those reports. This material is intended for high‑level informational purposes only and reflects data current as of Zone Year 2024.
