US container imports surged 8.2% in June compared to the same period last year, according to supply chain technology provider Descartes Systems Group. This increase was largely driven by a 27.4% year-over-year growth in imports from China, totaling 814,474 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in June.
The rise in imports is attributed to buyers rushing to bring in goods ahead of potential new tariffs and higher transportation costs tied to the U.S.-Israeli war in Iran. Analysts and shippers noted that many importers moved cargo early to front-run a July 1 increase in ocean freight costs.
The US is also expected to impose new tariffs tied to forced labor at the end of July. For the first half of 2026, imports were down 0.3% from the same period in 2025, Descartes said.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
