US Exports to China Hit Lowest Level in Three Years

The Port of Los Angeles, the busiest U.S. gateway for ocean trade, has reported a 8% decrease in exports to China in January, marking the lowest monthly output in nearly three years. This decline is attributed to President Trump's aggressive use of tariffs, which have had a ripple effect on global trade and retaliatory trade duties from China and other nations. The consequences of this trade war are being felt particularly hard by U.S. exporters such as farmers.

The decrease in exports to China was further exacerbated by the sharp decline in soybean shipments from the Port of Los Angeles to China, which dropped 80% last year. This trend did not improve in November or December, despite discussions between representatives of the two nations on the sidelines at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Summit. The trade situation remains bleak for U.S. exporters seeking to tap into the Chinese market.

Trade expert Chad Bown notes that the United States is now exporting relatively little to China, with outgoing shipments of everything from beef and corn to crude oil and coal also falling in 2025. This decline in exports highlights the significant impact of US-China trade tensions on global commerce. The Peterson Institute of Economics senior fellow's assessment underscores the challenges faced by U.S. exporters seeking to navigate this complex trade landscape.

Despite the decline in exports, imports to the Port of Los Angeles came in at 421,594 TEUs in January, down 13% from the unusually strong result the year earlier. This decrease is attributed to President Trump's tariffs on countries like China, which have reduced demand for U.S. goods. The impact of these tariffs can be seen across various industries, including manufacturing and agriculture.

Looking ahead to February and March, imports appear relatively flat compared to a year earlier. However, the Lunar New Year holiday in China has led to factory closures, which will slow down imports in March. This temporary slowdown highlights the ongoing challenges faced by U.S. exporters seeking to tap into the Chinese market.

Despite these challenges, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka expects total first-quarter volume at the port to fall less than 10% versus the year-earlier quarter. While this decline is significant, Seroka remains optimistic about the economy and cargo volume, citing lackluster U.S. December retail sales as a potential weakness in consumer spending.

Seroka's assessment underscores the importance of understanding the impact of trade tensions on global commerce. The decline in exports to China has significant implications for U.S. exporters and the broader economy. As the US-China trade situation continues to evolve, it is essential to monitor these trends closely.

The Port of Los Angeles' experience highlights the far-reaching consequences of President Trump's tariffs on countries like China. While some may argue that these tariffs are necessary to protect American industries, the impact on global trade and commerce cannot be ignored. As the US-China trade situation continues to unfold, it will be crucial to assess the long-term effects of these policies on the economy and global markets.

In conclusion, the decline in exports to China is a clear indicator of the ongoing challenges faced by U.S. exporters seeking to tap into the Chinese market. While some may argue that the benefits of tariffs outweigh the costs, the impact on global commerce cannot be ignored. As the US-China trade situation continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends closely and assess the long-term effects of these policies on the economy and global markets.