The impact of U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports is no longer theoretical—it is now reshaping supply chains across the Pacific. What started with front loaded shipments earlier in the year is now giving way to slowing imports, rising storage costs, and deepening uncertainty for shippers and retailers alike.
Traditionally, August is one of the strongest months for inbound volumes. But in 2025, the usual rhythm of the trans-Pacific trade has been upended. Shippers rushed to move goods ahead of tariff deadlines in July, creating a temporary surge. Now, as tariff costs climb and U.S. consumer demand softens, importers are pulling back.
The Global Port Tracker forecasts U.S. imports to rise 5.8% year over year in August, but from September through December, volumes are expected to decline by at least 20% each month compared to 2024. This is not only due to last year’s strike-driven comparisons but also to the growing strain tariffs place on smaller importers.
Small and medium-sized businesses are struggling the most. Many lack the financial buffer to absorb tariffs and are being forced to pass higher costs to consumers—or abandon orders altogether. A U.S. Census Bureau survey found that 34% of businesses planned to raise prices within six months, up from 29% just two weeks earlier. Even retail giants like Home Depot, which initially pledged not to raise prices, are now making adjustments.
The uncertainty is also evident in port operations. According to Go Comet, average demurrage at major U.S. ports climbed to 8.1days in July, compared to 3.8 days in January. Some importers are even abandoning containers when the cost of tariffs exceeds the resale value of the goods. Others are turning to origin-controlled cargo models or shifting toward small-parcel shipments to stay afloat.
Adding to the instability is the fragile U.S.–China tariff framework, which currently sets a 55% tariff rate. With the truce set to expire on November 10, businesses remain reluctant to commit to long-term sourcing. Many are cautiously replenishing stock in “dribs and drabs,” while others are experimenting with alternative supply strategies.
The trans-Pacific trade is entering a phase of volatility where traditional seasonal patterns are no longer reliable. For logistics professionals, the challenge is twofold:
At Worldtop & Meta, we believe agility is the definingadvantage in today’s trade environment. By combining real-time datavisibility, flexible freight solutions, and proactive planning,shippers can weather tariff shocks while keeping global supply chainsresilient.
Source:https://www.joc.com/article/toll-of-us-tariffs-begins-to-emerge-on-unsettled-trans-pacific-6065761
