U.S. container ports are projected to face continued year-over-year declines in import cargo volume through 2026, driven by tariff pressures and uncertainty around trade policy.
Key Takeaways
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Prolonged tariff impact: Persistent trade policy uncertainty and ongoing tariff measures are expected to suppress cargo volumes and weaken global shipping demand into 2026.
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Retailer adaptation: Retailers plan to realign supply chains to maintain inventory flow and affordability despite trade policy volatility.
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Slowing port volumes: October imports fell nearly 8% year over year, with further declines projected for November and December, marking the softest activity since mid-2023.
