WTDC Newsletter
4/1/2026
MIA reports sixth consecutive year of record breaking growth
As reported in Miami Today, Miami International Airport (MIA) handled 3.5 million tons of air cargo shipments in 2025, a 13.6% increase. This marks a sixth consecutive year of record breaking growth. Aviation Director Ralph Cutié shared that MIA is working on a direct cargo route with China which would bolster international and domestic cargo figures.
Miami Today: Miami International Airport adding on to 107 nonstop destinations abroad
President’s Corner
Tonight marks the beginning of Passover, the foundational Jewish festival of freedom and redemption.
This week is also Holy Week for Christians. Easter Sunday, and the resurrection of Christ, encourages us to appreciate fresh beginnings, renewal, and faith.
May these seasons inspire all of us to renew our commitments to our faith, families, and continued growth in our industry.
In Orlando this week, we reconnected with friends, customers, and colleagues at Summit of the Americas 2026. Despite challenges to the Duty Free and Travel Retail industry, such as the slowing of air travel in recent weeks, suppliers and retailers seemed resolute in their prospects for new business opportunities.
Wishing you all a blessed Passover and Happy Easter!
Best Regards,
Sean Gazitua, President & CEO
WTDC article in Travel Markets Insider
Travel Markets Insider published WTDC President & CEO Sean Gazitua in their special edition for Summit of the Americas 2026. In the article, Mr. Gazitua shared his outlook on how geopolitical and economic factors are shaping logistics for Duty Free & Travel retail with special focus on the cruise industry, the Panama Canal, Foreign Trade Zones, and the IEEPA tariffs recently repealed in the U.S. See excerpt below:
Did you know that nearly 4 out of every 10 cruises worldwide sail in the Caribbean? Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) shared this insight in their 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report. U.S. ports, especially in Florida, act as passenger gateways supply hubs and to stock these floating marketplaces with luxury goods, spirits, electronics, and tobacco. Their proximity to the Caribbean allows for shorter itineraries and higher turnover. PortMiami, Port Everglades, and Port Canaveral are all improving their infrastructures to serve these high volumes of travelers. Florida FTZs and bonded warehouses efficiently provision the ships year-round, delivering duty free inventory to the ships before departure.
TMI – WTDC talks about tariffs, FTZs, and cruise logistics
MIA reports sixth consecutive year of record breaking growth
As reported in Miami Today, Miami International Airport (MIA) handled 3.5 million tons of air cargo shipments in 2025, a 13.6% increase. This marks a sixth consecutive year of record breaking growth. Aviation Director Ralph Cutié shared that MIA is working on a direct cargo route with China which would bolster international and domestic cargo figures.
Miami Today: Miami International Airport adding on to 107 nonstop destinations abroad
Port of Palm Beach completes $30 million infrastructure project ahead of schedule
On March 26, Port of Palm Beach celebrated the completion of its $30 million Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP). Finished 6 months ahead to schedule, upgrades included a redesign and automation of the Port’s main entrance, expanded truck lanes, security upgrades, and refurbishing the 6.5 miles of rail at the Port.
Port of Palm Beach Celebrates Completion of $30 Million Infrastructure Development Program
USTR Greer discusses Strait of Hormuz, China, and tariffs
On March 31, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer discussed Strait of Hormuz impacts on the US supply chain, the Trump administration’s call for reforms to the World Trade Organization (WTO), and a preview of continued trade talks with China.
Bloomberg: USTR Greer on Hormuz, China Talks, Trade Tariffs