Q1 ends strong for Port of Los Angeles, with tariff impact expected to hit in H2

The Port of Los Angeles processed 778,406 TEU in March, 4.7% more than last year. The Port ended the first quarter handling 2,504,049 TEU, 5.2% ahead of last year’s strong pace.

“Our volume remained strong throughout the first quarter, and we’ve now seen year-over year growth in 18 of the last 20 months,” Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka said at a media briefing. “The start of the second quarter looks encouraging as importers begin to plan for spring and summer fashion, as well as back to school.
   


“However, with tariff and counter tariffs dominating the news, I expect we’ll see cargo decline in the second half of the year at least 10% compared to 2024,” Seroka added. “That’s because many importers have already brought their goods in early, and as prices begin to rise, consumers will think twice about many purchases.”
 
Joe Kramek, President and CEO of the World Shipping Council, joined Seroka at the media event. Kramek discussed the impact of proposed fees on container ships built in China, decarbonisation of the supply chain and other trade topics.
 


March 2025 loaded imports came in at 385,531 TEU, 1.6% higher compared to the previous year. Loaded exports landed at 122,975 TEU, a 15% drop from 2024. The Port processed 269,900 empty containers, 23% more than last year.