Los Angeles Port Sees Robust April Activity Amid Anticipated Trade Decline

In April 2025, the port of Los angeles processed an notable 842,806 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), reflecting a solid 9.4% rise from the previous year. This achievement places it as the third-highest April performance ever, trailing only behind the records set in 2021 and 2022. So far this year, total container traffic has reached 3,346,853 TEUs—up by 6.2% compared to early 2024.

Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the port, shared that loaded imports hit a notable figure of 439,230 TEUs—a year-over-year increase of about 5%. On the flip side,loaded exports have been struggling; they fell by 3% to reach just over 128,000 TEUs for five months in a row now.

Seroka commented on this trend: “for nearly two years now we’ve enjoyed strong volume growth with ten consecutive months showing improvement.” He attributed much of this success to a robust economy and high consumer confidence initially but noted that recent increases are largely due to importers rushing cargo ahead of looming tariffs.

Looking ahead though, Seroka is cautious about potential declines in global trade driven by ongoing tariff issues and market uncertainties. To prepare for what might be a slowdown in activity at the port, plans are underway for $230 million worth of capital projects next fiscal year.

The effects of changing trade policies are notably visible in export numbers. Seroka pointed out that retaliatory tariffs pose significant challenges moving forward—especially impacting agriculture and manufacturing sectors substantially.

Interestingly enough, empty container movements surged by an astounding 25% compared to last year’s figures—totaling around 275,183 units—as shipping companies reposition their equipment back towards Asia to optimize capacity usage.

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