The Tariff Rush At The Port Of Los Angeles

Shippers front-loaded imports at the Port of Los Angeles to beat looming tariffs, fueling the third-highest trade volume of the decade. Total 2025 trade still trailed 2024 levels as activity slowed during negotiations.

The Port of Los Angeles remains the largest port in the United States. In 2025, it recorded the third-highest trade volume of the past decade, as many shipping companies accelerated imports ahead of anticipated tariffs and then scaled back volumes during tariff negotiations. Despite that surge earlier in the year, both imports and exports have declined compared to 2024. In 2025, total imports reached $268.14 billion, while exports came in at $32.56 billion.

Source: Port of Los Angeles, The Business Week Graphic

This graph was produced by Lucas Juery, CFA, CFPⓇ , and is not intended to provide financial advice.

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