Port of Oakland exports up 8.4 percent in May despite tariffs

Oakland, Calif. – June 14, 2019: Containerized export volume at the Port of Oakland spiked last month, again turning trade war logic on its head.  The Port said today that exports, primarily to Asia, were up 8.4 percent compared to May 2018 totals.  Imports were up, too, climbing 4.2 percent over last year.

The Port said it handled the equivalent of 85,964 20-foot import containers in May.  Exports totaled 78,070 containers.

Oakland has now reported improved year-over-year import and export performance for three straight months.  The trend contradicts analyst warnings of trade declines in the face of an ongoing U.S.-China tariff skirmish.

“Logic tells us that at some point, tariffs should drive down cargo volumes because they’re making international trade more expensive,” explained Port of Oakland Maritime Director John Driscoll.  “But our customers have so far defied conventional wisdom by finding new markets for their products.”

The Port said its export growth centered on China’s neighbors including Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea and Japan.  Importers, too, are turning to those markets to purchase products previously sourced in China, the Port added.

Oakland’s total cargo volume last month – imports, exports and empty container returns – increased 9 percent, the Port said.  The volume of empty containers shipped back to Asian markets for reuse climbed 17.5 percent.

Oakland set a record by handling 2.55 million cargo containers in 2018.  Through the first five months of 2019, its volume is up 5.5 percent compared to last year.  The Port cautioned against projecting future volumes, however, due to the uncertain global trade outlook.

The U.S. this month began imposing even higher tariffs on goods imported from China.  The Port said it would pay close attention to June cargo volume to learn if heightened tariffs dampen trade.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland Seaport, Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port's 5-year strategic plan - Growth with Care - pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 84,000 jobs in Northern California. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.

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