Dismal China Exports Add to Freight Trade Slump for Nation's Biggest Port

China's Freight Trade Slump Continues

The Port of Los Angeles, the nation's biggest trade hub, has seen a decline in import and export container volume during what is usually a busy shipping time. This decline is part of a broader trend of dismal China exports, which are adding to the freight trade slump for the nation's biggest port.

According to CNBC ^[1], the Port of Los Angeles has experienced a decline in import and export container volume, with a total of 744,289 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) handled in January 2026, down 4.4% from the same period in 2025. This decline is significant, as the Port of Los Angeles typically sees an increase in container volume during the first quarter of the year.

The decline in China exports is a major contributor to the freight trade slump, as China is one of the largest exporters of goods to the United States. The decline in exports is due to a combination of factors, including a slowdown in global demand and a strengthening of the US dollar.

Impact on the US Economy

The decline in China exports is having a significant impact on the US economy, as it is leading to a decrease in imports and a subsequent decrease in economic activity. This decline is also affecting the US trade deficit, as the country is importing fewer goods from China.

Conclusion

The decline in China exports is a major contributor to the freight trade slump for the nation's biggest port, and it is having a significant impact on the US economy. As the global economy continues to slow down, it is likely that the decline in China exports will continue, leading to further declines in imports and economic activity.

Sources

[1] Dismal' China exports add to freight trade slump for nation's biggest port