Port of LA Imports Slump as Trump Tariffs Disrupt Trade Flows

Total container traffic though the Port of Los Angeles dropped 12% in January as exports and imports weakened from a year earlier, when shippers rushed to move freight in anticipation of President Donald Trump’s tariffs.

“There are several factors at play,” Port of LA Executive Director Gene Seroka said Tuesday. “First, we’re comparing January to 2025’s elevated numbers when importers were scrambling to get cargo in ahead of tariffs. Second, inventories remain slightly higher, reflecting the earlier cargo surge and a more cautious restocking pace.”

Seroka noted that despite the trade war uncertainty, “purchase orders that go out three ...