The Port of Los Angeles is preparing for a significant disruption in trade operations as newly imposed U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods take effect. Executive Director Gene Seroka has warned of a projected 35% decline in cargo volumes from Asia beginning next week, marking one of the steepest drops in recent history.
The sharp decrease stems from major U.S. retailers suspending shipments from China, which traditionally accounts for approximately 45% of the port’s trade activity. This follows a short-term surge in cargo volume as businesses rushed to import goods ahead of the tariff increases.
Seroka cautioned that the fallout could be severe, with potential job losses in logistics, shipping, trucking, and retail. Consumers may also face higher prices and limited product availability, as some retailers report inventory levels that may only last another six to eight weeks.
Trade analysts and government officials are increasingly alarmed by the escalating U.S.-China tensions. The National Retail Federation predicts a 20% decline in overall U.S. import cargo volumes in the second half of 2025, raising concerns about broader economic implications.
