U.S. imports are expected to stay high through spring due to potential strikes at East and Gulf Coast ports and rising tariffs, according to the latest Port Tracker report by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. While October imports reached 2.25 million TEU, up 9.3% from last year, they fell 1.2% from September. Future projections suggest slight fluctuations in volumes, with significant increases anticipated in March and April. Concerns linger over labor negotiations and potential tariff increases under the incoming administration, prompting retailers to expedite cargo shipments.

Source: https://www.logisticsmgmt.com/article/potential_for_port_strike_and_increased_tariffs_drives_u.s_bound_import_activity_reports_port_tracker/