US ocean imports from China fell 28.3% in June 2025 due to higher tariffs; meanwhile, imports from Southeast Asia have surged.
Containerized imports from China to the United States experienced a sharp 28.3% decline year-over-year in June 2025—a significant drop driven by rising tariffs and a shift in sourcing strategies among importers.
Sharp Decline in Containerized Imports from China
According to the latest report from supply chain technology provider Descartes, US ocean imports of containerized goods from China fell sharply in June 2025 compared to the same period last year. Data indicates a 28.3% decrease year-over-year. This downward trend, which began in May, has been exacerbated by the recent tariff hikes. Imports from China totaled 639,300 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), marking a substantial reduction from previous levels.
Overall Drop in US Ocean Imports
Total US containerized imports in June 2025 decreased by 3.5% compared to June 2024, reaching approximately 2.2 million TEUs. This overall decline signals reduced volumes of goods arriving from most countries, except a few exceptions, posing challenges for supply chains and international trade. Analysts believe that the drop in imports from China has played a major role in this development.
China’s Shrinking Share in US Import Market
China’s share of the US import market in June 2025 fell to 28.8%, a steep decline from its peak of 40% in July 2024. This decrease reflects a significant shift in US importers’ preferences toward diversified sourcing. The impact is particularly visible in popular consumer goods sectors such as furniture, toys, textiles, and footwear.
Growth of Imports from Southeast Asian Countries
In contrast to declining imports from China, shipments from Southeast Asian countries including Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand have surged. These nations have been able to fill some of the gaps left by reduced Chinese imports. American importers, aiming to mitigate tariff risks and diversify supply sources, have increasingly turned to these markets, affecting global trade dynamics.
Analysis of Overall US Import Trends
Jackson Wood, Director of Industry Strategy at Descartes, notes that US ocean imports are stabilizing after a 7.2% drop in May. He further mentions that total US ocean imports through June 2025 are up 3.8% year-over-year, although growth has slowed compared to earlier months in the year.
Outlook on Tariffs and Trade Policies
Despite relative stabilization, uncertainties surrounding US tariff policies persist. The temporary US-China trade agreement that reduced some punitive tariffs is set to expire on August 10, 2025. This development could trigger significant shifts in trade volumes and patterns.
Impact of Tariff Exemption Extensions
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump recently signed an executive order extending tariff exemptions for certain countries. Originally scheduled to expire on July 9, this extension now runs through August 1. This move may temporarily alleviate tariff pressures on some imports and provide relief to affected sectors.
Conclusion and Future Trends
Ultimately, the US ocean import market is in a state of transition. The decline in imports from China, alongside rising shipments from Southeast Asia, underscores strategic changes in global trade structures. Furthermore, evolving tariff measures and trade policies between the US and China will play a decisive role in shaping the direction of this market in the coming months.
