Trade Tensions Take a Toll: Chinese Exports to U.S. West Coast Ports Decline Sharply

U.S. import tariffs on Chinese goods remain at a steep 145%, putting pressure on trade volumes and consumer prices.

Amid intensifying trade tensions between the United States and China, Chinese exports to key U.S. West Coast ports have dropped significantly, marking a noticeable shift in international logistics patterns.

At the Port of Los Angeles - one of the busiest entry points for Asian imports - containerized shipments from China have fallen by 10% year-over-year. Together with the neighboring Port of Long Beach, these two gateways handle roughly 40% of all Asian imports into the United States.

Port of Los Angeles sees 10% year-over-year decline in containerized shipments from China.

Officials are bracing for a steeper drop ahead. On April 24, Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles, warned that cargo volumes could decline by as much as 35% within the next two weeks. “We are now beginning to see the flow of cargo to the Port of Los Angeles slow,” Seroka stated. “Essentially all shipments out of China for major retailers and manufacturers have ceased.”

This dramatic slowdown follows the Trump administration’s decision to implement a 145% tariff on a broad range of Chinese imports starting April 9. In response, companies such as Temu and Shein - widely known for their budget-friendly consumer goods - have already increased their prices, citing rising operating costs due to changes in trade regulations.

>>> Read more: U.S. Raises Tariffs on China to 125%, Temporarily Eases Measures for Other Nations

Broader Port Disruptions Reflect Trade War Fallout

The disruption is not isolated to Southern California. The Port of Seattle is also feeling the effects of diminished trade volumes. Commissioner Ryan Calkins noted that fewer vessels are expected in the coming weeks, with lighter cargo loads on those that do arrive.

“We’re going to see a pretty significant drop-off towards the end of May,” said Calkins. “Even if the trade dispute improves, the logistical impacts will take time to correct.”

Rising Costs Felt Across the Supply Chain

Consumers are starting to feel the pinch, with many everyday goods becoming more expensive. The current trade environment is forcing businesses throughout the logistics supply chain - from shippers to retailers - to reevaluate sourcing strategies and absorb or pass on increased costs.

>>> Read more: U.S. Ends Duty-Free Privileges "De Minimis" for Low-Value Shipments from China and Hong Kong

Worldcraft Logistics Insight: Navigating Uncertainty with Agility

While the current downturn in Chinese exports to U.S. West Coast ports reflects broader geopolitical tensions, it also underscores the need for agile logistics strategies. At Worldcraft Logistics, we believe this environment presents an opportunity for supply chain diversification, improved forecasting, and closer collaboration between freight forwarders and clients.

As global trade policies continue to shift, we encourage businesses to reassess their sourcing models and explore alternative shipping lanes or origin markets when feasible. The ability to adapt quickly - whether through multimodal transport options or flexible warehousing solutions - will be key to mitigating delays, managing costs, and staying resilient in an evolving global trade landscape.

*This article has been rewritten and edited to better suit the readership of Worldcraft Logistics. It does not represent the views of any political entity or specific organization mentioned in the original report.