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Image of Port of Oakland import volume increased 9 percent last month

Port of Oakland import volume increased 9 percent last month

Busiest January ever for inbound cargo as shippers rush loads to U.S. from Asia

Press Releases, Seaport
February 14th, 2019

Oakland, Calif. – Feb. 14, 2019: Port of Oakland containerized import volume increased 9 percent last month over January 2018 totals. According to data released today, the Port handled the equivalent of 81,895 20-foot import containers last month.  The Port said it was the busiest January for imports in its history.

Oakland’s January export volume rose 0.6 percent compared to last year, the Port said.  Total container volume – imports, exports and empty containers, increased 3.2 percent, year-over-year.

The Port said two developments in Asia – its largest market – influenced a January import surge:

  • U.S. shippers rushed imports into the country due to lingering concern about future Chinese tariff increases.
  • Importers also tried to stock up in advance of annual Lunar New Year factory shutdowns in Asia.

January marked six consecutive months of increasing imports in Oakland, the Port said.  Year-over-year volume increased nearly 11 percent last December and 15 percent in November.

“Concern over international trade issues has driven unprecedented import volume,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director John Driscoll.  “We’re watching closely to see what happens next.”

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 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.

Media Contacts

Mike Zampa
Port of Oakland
Communications Director
(510) 627-1565
[email protected]

Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Port Spokesperson
(510) 627-1193
[email protected]

 

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