Shipbuilding, chemicals, and metallurgy were the first major industries in the city. Portland's other industries include food processing, meat packing, and textile manufacturing. The city is a canning center and packages fruits and vegetables from the Willamette Valley and fishes from nearby rivers. Portland is one of the chief freshwater ports of the United States. Most of the inbound ocean freight is from other ports in the United States.
Vessels bring in petroleum, iron and steel, chemicals, and corn.
Much of the outbound tonnage, including lumber, wheat, livestock, and wool, goes to ports in Asia. Portland's location near ample hydroelectric power gives it an immense industrial advantage. Portland has a commission form of government.