Trade affected by tariffs, rising prices, and waning consumer demand
Cargo activity at the Port of Long Beach slowed in September as global trade pressures and softening consumer demand took hold. Dockworkers and terminal operators moved 797,537 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) during the month — down 3.9% compared to September 2024.
Import volumes fell 6.9 % to 388,084 TEUs, while exports declined 3.6 % to 85,081 TEUs. The number of empty containers moving through the Port saw a slight increase, up by 161 units to 324,372 TEUs.
According to Port of Long Beach CEO Mario Cordero, shifting trade policies and higher prices have influenced both consumer spending and business purchasing behavior. He noted that while October is projected to remain relatively steady, the Port’s Supply Chain Information Highway data system anticipates a modest slowdown in November due to expected weather-related delays and vessel scheduling changes.
Long Beach Harbor Commission President Frank Colonna credited the Port’s workforce and industry partners for maintaining steady operations amid fluctuating global trade conditions. He said the Port’s continued efficiency and reliability remain essential to its role as a key gateway for trans-Pacific commerce.
Despite the September slowdown, the Port remains on track for a strong year. Between January and September, the Port handled 7,390,245 TEUs, representing a 6.8 % increase from the same period last year. The third quarter also marked the second-busiest on record, with 2,643,614 TEUs processed between July 1 and September 30.
For complete cargo statistics, visit polb.com/statistics.
