US imports fall more than expected in June on tariff concerns, trade body data shows
U.S. imports experienced an unexpected decline in June, attributed to tariff policy uncertainties impacting retailers. The National Retail Federation reported an 8.4% year-over-year drop in container volume at major ports. Concerns are rising about potential price increases and reduced product choices for consumers during the holiday season.
iStock U.S. ports covered by NRF's report handled 1.96 million 20-foot containers or its equivalent in June, which was down 8.4% year-over-year, but up 0.7% from May. Imports into the United States fell more than expected in June as concerns around shifting tariff policies hit retailers, raising fears of fewer product options in stores for shoppers, data from the National Retail Federation showed on Friday.
Why it's important
The data comes as several of U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs went into effect this week. As of August 7, duties range from 10% to 50%, with India, Brazil, and Switzerland facing some of the highest rates.Since April's "Liberation Day" announcement of a 10% baseline tariff, Trump has adjusted rates frequently. A temporary truce with China in May reduced tariffs to 30%, but new hikes resumed in July.
By the numbers U.S. ports covered by NRF's report handled 1.96 million 20-foot containers or its equivalent in June, which was down 8.4% year-over-year, but up 0.7% from May.
That was a bigger drop from the NRF forecast from a month ago. The trade body had then projected ports would handle 2.06 million TEU in June, up 5.9% from May but down 3.7% year over year.Moreover, import cargo volume at major container ports in the U.S. is tentatively expected to end 2025 5.6% below 2024's volume, NRF's forecast showed on Friday.ContextApparel retailers, including Under Armour, Deckers Outdoor have reported tariff impacts in the past couple of months and are taking steps to diversify their supply chain to avoid tariffs on goods routed through or sourced from Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam.
Key quote
"The uncertainty around tariffs has impacted retailers' ability to forecast holiday orders and shipments. As tariff rates increase, consumers will ultimately face higher prices and less choice and availability during the holiday season," NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said."We need binding trade agreements that open markets by lowering tariffs, not raising them."Tariffs will result in higher prices for U.S. consumers, less hiring, lower business investment and a slower economy, he added.
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