U.S.-bound freight has slowed sharply during what is normally peak shipping season, with Chinese exports to the U.S. down about 27% year-over-year for three straight weeks. The usual September–October rush ahead of China’s Golden Week is absent, as early 2025 frontloading, high trade-war tariffs, and retailer overstocking have left little freight to move. Key categories like furniture, toys, electronics, machinery, and plastics are seeing steep drops, leading to blank sailings, suspended Asia–U.S. routes, and higher container rates (about $1,000 more per 40-foot container). Analysts warn that import volumes at major U.S. ports will continue to decline through year-end, putting pressure on retailers, shipping lines, and the broader supply chain.
https://www.cnbc.com/2025/09/10/china-exports-imports-trade-war-freight-shipping.html
27% decrease in Chinese exports is a lot and I wonder how that will effect the U.S heading into the holidays since we aren't receiving as much toys, electronics, etc.
ReplyDeleteThe slowdown in U.S.-bound freight highlights how trade patterns and overstocking can ripple through the supply chain. I have a feeling Christmas is going to be hard for a lot of families.
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