SIMIC

The Northwest Seaport Alliance is seeing impacts from new US tariffs, including declining volumes and growing uncertainty, reports Westside Seattle.

Port officials highlighted a 30 per cent week-on-week drop in international import volumes in early May, along with a 21 per cent decline in vessel lifts and 11.2 per cent fewer truck trips compared to 2025 averages.



While early 2025 volumes were strong, a significant decline began in May following US tariff hikes, raising concerns about long-term regional economic effects.



China remains the top trade partner, accounting for 40 per cent of imports and 52 per cent of exports, amplifying the ports' vulnerability to policy changes.



Blank sailings - where scheduled ships skip port calls - are up, with 17 expected in May and June. This could cut longshore work by up to 30 per cent, affecting thousands of workers and local businesses.



Port officials say the broader economic ripple includes warehouse slowdowns, reduced shifts, and workers shifting to gig jobs like ride-hailing to make ends meet.



While signs of recovery may emerge by July, uncertainty surrounding the August 14 tariff deadline continues to hinder planning and supply chain stability.