Full import container volumes are down 2 percent for that same time period. The lack of US consumer confidence, due to economic uncertainty, is also contributing to the decline of Asian imports up and down the West Coast. In August, the U.S. consumer confidence level was at its lowest point since February 2009.
Other year-to-date cargo highlights include:
Auto imports (units) are up 50 percent, reflecting strong Kia sales, and the auto production rebound in Japan.
Breakbulk tonnage is up 69 percent, driven by the strength of agricultural and construction machinery exports through the Port.
Year-to-date, the Port has handled 7,324,736 tons of cargo (excluding grain), a 12 percent increase from last year.
Grain exports are down about 2 percent year-to-date (4,015,976 tons).