U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement Boosts Project
Sentinel Midstream has commenced construction of the Texas GulfLink deepwater port, marking a significant milestone in U.S. energy export infrastructure. This project is supported by the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, which facilitates the expansion of U.S. export capabilities and enhances global energy security.
Situated about 30 miles off the coast of Freeport, Texas, the Texas GulfLink terminal will enable the direct loading of Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs). This development improves the efficiency of U.S. crude oil exports. By accommodating the largest carriers, Texas GulfLink aims to boost the competitiveness of American energy in global markets.
The funding for the project comes from the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement, enabled by Executive Order 14345 signed on September 4, 2025. This financial support highlights international confidence in U.S. energy infrastructure and promotes American crude oil exports globally. The agreement showcases the collaboration between the U.S. and Japan in strengthening energy ties.
Howard Lutnick, U.S. Secretary of Commerce, stated, “The historic U.S.-Japan Trade Deal is driving another investment forward. This time into another American energy supplier. The milestone will bring jobs and acceleration to the Gulf of America for years to come, and I look forward to Japan and Sentinel Midstream’s progress ahead in delivering clean, affordable and efficient energy production to American consumers in this win for the Trump Administration.”
Economic and Job Benefits
With the Texas GulfLink becoming operational, billions of dollars in annual export value are expected to be generated. The project will also create numerous jobs in Brazoria County, reinforcing the United States’ position as a reliable global energy supplier. The local economy and broader energy market are likely to experience a substantial impact.
John Cornyn, U.S. Senator of Texas, remarked, “Today’s announcement from the U.S. Department of Commerce that the Texas GulfLink project will commence construction is great news for Texas and demonstrates the Trump administration’s continued commitment to unleashing American energy. Texas GulfLink will bring well-paying jobs to Brazoria County and help generate billions of dollars in American crude oil exports, and I look forward to welcoming the new export terminal to the Lone Star State.”
Sentinel Midstream CEO Jeff Ballard explained, “Texas GulfLink is about more than infrastructure, it is about unlocking the full potential of American energy. This project is a cornerstone in achieving energy independence and a robust export market.”
The construction of the terminal, which will support the loading of the world’s largest crude carriers, represents a strategic move to enhance market access across Asia and Europe. This advancement is crucial in solidifying trade relationships with key allies and expanding the footprint of U.S. energy exports.
Ted Cruz, United States Senator of Texas, emphasised the importance of the project, stating, “Dallas-based Sentinel Midstream is playing a critical role in expanding Texas’s energy infrastructure and exporting American energy to our allies. When I became the top Republican on the Senate Commerce Committee, I made securing federal approval for deepwater port projects one of my top priorities and fought to move them forward. Texas GulfLink is now coming to fruition—supporting thousands of jobs and delivering billions in investment across Texas.”
Randy Weber, United States Representative of Texas 14th District, highlighted the regional impact, “Investment is pouring into the United States, and you can see it right here on the Texas Gulf Coast. Just 30 miles off our coast, a new deepwater port is taking shape, promising to transform our energy export capabilities and bring substantial economic benefits to our community.”
Last updated: 6 May 2026, 9:49 am
