The US government shutdown delays decisions on import purchases.

The ongoing U.S. government shutdown is hindering importers' purchasing decisions ahead of the Lunar New Year, according to Gene Seroka of the Port of Los Angeles. As retailers typically have a three-month period to place orders, shipments from U.S. importers are expected to slow in December. Despite this, Seroka anticipates increased activity in the six weeks following the year-end holidays. Although cargo volumes may decline compared to last year, the port is on track to reach a 10 million container unit target for 2025, processing 848,431 TEUs in October.