The Port of Los Angeles reported its strongest quarter on record from July through September, handling nearly 3 million TEUs and surpassing last year’s third-quarter benchmark. September volumes, however, declined 7.5% year over year as the peak season wound down.
Executive Director Gene Seroka described the year as a “roller coaster,” pointing to shifting trade policies and tariff-related uncertainty. About 20% of vessels calling at the port are China-built, and new tariffs have begun to affect operations. Since the new fees on Chinese-origin vessels took effect on October 14, only one ship built in China called at the port this week.
Port equipment manufactured in China—including 40 of 83 cranes—is now subject to 100% tariffs. More than 5,000 pieces of cargo-handling machinery across the Los Angeles and Long Beach ports will face 150% tariffs on future purchases.