May imports drop nine per cent at busiest US seaport on China tariffs

The world's two biggest economies last month agreed to a 90-day pause on tit-for-tat tariffs, and the US lowered the duty on many China goods to 30 per cent from 145 per cent. The US and China this week agreed to maintain that lower rate, potentially defusing their high-stakes trade dispute.

Port executives and shipping consultants expect volumes from China to rebound, albeit at a more moderate level as 30 per cent duties represent a significant cost increase for importers.

"I expect overall cargo flow to remain modest for the balance of 2025," Seroka said.