Louisiana plays a significant role in American energy exports to China thanks to the state’s unique strength in ocean freight and port services. The Port of New Orleans ranks #7 in total trade among U.S. ‘s 450+ ports.  In October of 2021, American and Chinese business partners signed a 13-year deal to build a LNG production location in Louisiana valued at over $4.6B. Chinese investment in the state also favors port services such as the 4 new electric gantry cranes for the Port of New Orleans, which was part of a multi-million dollar investment and expansion project. The state also attracts a growing number of Chinese visitors to its cultural centers such as New Orleans. Many of Louisiana’s universities have well established exchange programs with Chinese Universities.