Konecranes to Build Port Cranes in the U.S. with New Partner Network

Finnish crane manufacturer Konecranes is establishing a network of partners, including steel structure providers and subcontractors, to build port cranes in the United States. This long-term initiative is part of a series of efforts by the U.S. government, which recognizes Konecranes’ position as a global leader in material handling solutions with significant roots in the country.

Konecranes expects the network to expand in states such as Ohio, Virginia, and Wisconsin, and has already received initial indications of interest from several customers for BABA cranes, including ship-to-shore (STS) cranes. Given that STS cranes take several years to produce and deliver, the company does not foresee any short-term financial impact from this initiative.

On Monday, the White House released a fact sheet highlighting recent private sector investments in American maritime industries, including commitments from Canadian shipbuilder Davie, South Korea shipbuilder HD Hyundai, U.S. shipbuilder Bollinger Shipyards, and Konecranes. The fact sheet noted that Konecranes’ plans include establishing and growing a consortium of U.S. partners, including steel structure providers and other manufacturers, to build STS cranes in the United States for North American ports.

In May, President Biden announced 25% tariffs on Chinese-manufactured ship-to-shore (STS) cranes starting this year to counter China’s unfair trade practices and address cybersecurity threats. The tariffs come as Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries (ZPMC), a major supplier of STS cranes to ports both in the U.S. and globally, has faced scrutiny over potential espionage concerns due to its affiliations with the Chinese Communist Party and concerns that its equipment could used as spying tools by China.

The White House also issued an Executive Order in February to enhance port security and committed $20 billion to revive domestic STS crane manufacturing.

Konecrane has the capability to modernize existing port cranes with the latest technology and cybersecurity standards, as part of its ongoing efforts to improve the safety, productivity, and sustainability of its customers’ operations. The company estimates that every STS crane built in the United States will require the production of 1,500 tons of U.S.-made steel and over 100,000 labor hours across the entire value chain.

Konecranes has operated in the U.S. for decades, with three crane manufacturing facilities, approximately 2,200 employees, and over 60 branches across the country. Its customers include privately-run ports, intermodal operators, port authorities, and multiple industries requiring smart, safe, and reliable material handling solutions. Konecranes says it is committed to growing its U.S. workforce in line with increasing business volumes.

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