US West Coast ports show growth amid operational strain

The Transpacific shipping corridor between the United States and China is experiencing a significant downturn, as newly imposed tariffs disrupt cargo flows, freight logistics, and port operations.

Since the U.S. government implemented a steep 145% tariff on Chinese imports in early April, cargo volumes have plummeted by up to 60%, according to Bloomberg.

This policy, part of the broader trade war under President Donald Trump, has already resulted in the cancellation of at least 80 sailings from China to the U.S.—a number nearly 60% higher than the peak months during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Bloomberg warns of a potential supply shock. Although American consumers have not yet fully felt the impact, that buffer may not last much longer.