The Port of Los Angeles experienced a modest increase in imports during March 2025, amid a trade outlook clouded by tariff uncertainties. The leading U.S. container gateway processed 778,406 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking a 4.7% rise compared to March 2024. This strong performance contributed to a solid first quarter, with the port handling a total of 2,504,049 TEUs, reflecting a 5.2% year-over-year growth.
Gene Seroka, the port’s executive director, noted in a media briefing, “Our volume remained robust throughout the first quarter, and we’ve registered year-over-year growth in 18 of the last 20 months.” He expressed optimism for the second quarter, expecting increased activity as importers gear up for the spring and summer fashion seasons, along with back-to-school shopping.
March’s loaded imports amounted to 385,531 TEUs, a 1.6% year-over-year increase, while loaded exports fell to 122,975 TEUs, down by 15%. The number of empty containers rose by 23% to 269,900 TEUs.
Despite the positive start to the year, Seroka cautioned about potential obstacles ahead. He anticipates a possible decline in cargo volume during the latter half of 2025, estimating a decrease of at least 10% compared to 2024. This prediction stems from two primary factors: importers have increased their inventories through frontloading, and the threat of tariffs and counter-tariffs may affect consumer purchasing behavior. Seroka stated, “With tariffs and counter-tariffs in the headlines, I expect to see a cargo decline in the second half of the year of at least 10% compared to 2024. Many importers have already brought in their goods early, and as prices rise, consumers will be more hesitant in their purchasing decisions.”
