Port Houston is a major trade conduit for petrochemicals and other energy-related products. As the coronavirus spreads, demand for U.S. energy output has subsequently diminished. Houston’s energy sector has also been impacted by an oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia, weakening the industry further.

Economists now anticipate that the combination of the coronavirus pandemic and struggling oil prices could slow the pace of Houston’s recovery, which will have a trickle-down effect on commercial real estate throughout the city.

Economic Alliance Houston Port Region President and CEO Chad Burke and JLL International Director Bruce Rutherford will discuss the effects of the coronavirus on Houston’s economy, and what key economic indicators commercial real estate professionals need to watch in the coming weeks and months.

Agenda

• How does the Port, as well as the broader logistics industry, contribute to Houston’s economy, and how have supply chains been disrupted by the coronavirus?
• Is there a direct link between the pandemic and the oil bust?
• Are we seeing increased demand for industrial warehouse space around the Port of Houston, given the current challenges surrounding global trade?
• What key economic indicators should the commercial real estate industry be watching as we move further through this crisis?
• How has activity at the Port of Houston been affected by the coronavirus?