Shreveport, Louisiana, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana, is set for notable economic growth, with 5,700 new jobs forecasted over the next two years. Driven by significant expansions at the Port of Caddo-Bossier, including Benteler Steel’s $21 million investment, the local economy is bolstered by emerging industries like technology and construction. Tourism also plays a pivotal role, with a substantial economic impact. Despite facing challenges such as rising unemployment and external economic uncertainties, local initiatives aim to foster industrial opportunities and maintain growth momentum.
Shreveport, Louisiana
Shreveport is poised for significant economic growth, with forecasts indicating the creation of approximately 5,700 jobs over the next two years. This job expansion represents a growth rate of 3.3% within the local Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA). Dr. Loren Scott, a prominent economist, presented this optimistic economic outlook at the Port of Caddo-Bossier on October 4, 2024, highlighting the role of various industries in driving this growth.
A notable development contributing to this economic uptick is Benteler Steel/Tube Manufacturing’s announcement of a $21 million expansion at the Port of Caddo-Bossier, which is expected to create 49 new jobs. Additionally, the Port has seen a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new 40,000 square foot warehouse, further enhancing its capacity for industry and commerce. The Port of Caddo-Bossier is projected to house 2,189 new jobs by 2027, with $104 million in expansion projects currently under consideration.
Emerging Industries and Investments
The Shreveport area is also seeing potential investments that may significantly alter the economic landscape. Plans for a new data center and office building of over 1 million square feet at the Resilient Technology Park in west Shreveport could provide a substantial number of jobs. The arrival of this data center could substantially enhance the previously mentioned job forecasts. Other local industries, including Amazon, have contributed positively, with Amazon employing around 2,200 individuals at its SHV1 facility.
In addition to industrial growth, local economic opportunities continue to thrive. A $50 million investment is being made in Ascentek, and the Ochsner LSU Health medical center is set for a $43 million expansion. The local airport is also experiencing growth, with a new facility from Skywest to be established at Shreveport Regional Airport.
Local Economy and Tourism
Tourism has made a notable contribution to the Shreveport economy, with domestic tourism generating approximately 9.7 million visitors in 2024 and contributing to a $1.4 billion economic impact. Meanwhile, international tourism added $3.2 million spent on local businesses in the same year. However, the region is facing challenges; the unemployment rate in the Shreveport-Bossier area rose to 5% in June 2024, causing caution among local business owners regarding potential economic cooling trends.
Future Predictions and Market Factors
The economic forecast for Louisiana predicts steady growth in the state’s real gross domestic product (RGDP), with anticipated increases of 1.5% in 2025, 1.8% in 2026, and 2.5% in 2027. However, uncertainty from federal tariffs continues to cast a shadow over local economic optimism, impacting potential investment and the completion costs of projects. The region will also need to contend with rising interest rates and fluctuating demand for natural gas in global markets, which may affect local industries.
Active efforts by local partnerships, such as the North Louisiana Economic Partnership’s acquisition of the former Libbey Glass manufacturing facility, aim to stimulate the local industrial sector by preparing it for modern manufacturing opportunities.
Conclusion
The outlook for Northwest Louisiana’s economy, particularly Shreveport, remains cautiously optimistic. With a combination of job growth, substantial investments in infrastructure, and a vibrant tourism industry, the region has the potential to bounce back and thrive amid national economic challenges.
FAQs
What is the projected job growth in Shreveport over the next two years?
The job growth forecasted for the local Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) is approximately 5,700 jobs, equating to a 3.3% growth rate.
What are the significant expansions occurring at the Port of Caddo-Bossier?
Benteler Steel/Tube Manufacturing announced a $21 million expansion that will create 49 new jobs, and a new 40,000 square foot warehouse has recently opened at the Port.
How is tourism impacting Shreveport’s economy?
In 2024, domestic tourism brought in approximately 9.7 million visitors, contributing to a $1.4 billion economic impact in the area, alongside $3.2 million from international tourism.
What factors are contributing to economic uncertainty in the region?
Uncertainty from federal tariffs, rising interest rates, and fluctuations in global demand for natural gas are contributing to economic caution in the region.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Projected Job Growth | 5,700 jobs (3.3% growth) |
| Benteler Expansion | $21 million, 49 new jobs |
| Tourism Revenue | $1.4 billion from 9.7 million visitors |
| Unemployment Rate | 5% in June 2024 |
| Amazon Employment | 2,200 employees |
| Future RGDP Growth | 1.5% (2025), 1.8% (2026), 2.5% (2027) |
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- Wikipedia: Economy of Louisiana
- KTAL News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
- Bossier Press
- Google Search: Shreveport economy
- KSLA News
- Google News: Shreveport Business
- Shreveport-Bossier Advocate
- Google Scholar: Shreveport economy
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
