The South Carolina State Ports Authority (SCSPA) Board has adopted the first major update to the organisation's strategic plan in several years, in a bid to set a clear direction and priorities for addressing the market and competitive challenges and opportunities.

"Through this eight month process, we have established the vision and direction for South Carolina's ports," said authority chairman David Posek. "Now, we're going to pursue it aggressively."

The plan was developed with the input of customers, stakeholders, the maritime community and elected officials through interviews with the planning team.

"Charleston has the deepest channels on the South Atlantic," Jim Newsome, SCSPA president and CEO, said in a statement from port authorities. "Charleston can handle 90 per cent of the world's existing and on-order containerships up to 9,000 TEU. Even before the Panama Canal expansion is completed in 2014, I believe this port will see postpanamax ships with more regularity and frequency. This is a competitive advantage for our customers."

The plan includes building the breakbulk business in Charleston and Georgetown, partnerships with stakeholders on new business, completing phase one of the new Navy Base Terminal, implementing a post 45-foot deepening project in Charleston, enhancing communications with stakeholders and advancing a new terminal in Jasper County.