Port of Oakland import volume dipped last month while export growth flattened during a seasonal lull in containerized trade.
The Port reported today that March imports declined 1.9 percent compared to March 2017. Exports were essentially flat – down just 0.5 percent.
The Port attributed declining import volume to post-Lunar New Year holidays in Asia. Shipments traditionally slump as factories that produce many U.S.-bound goods temporarily shut down, the Port explained.
Oakland exports remained virtually unchanged after three consecutive months of growth. The Port said China’s restrictions on recyclable commodities such as waste paper contributed to the export growth pause.
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport, and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square. The Port's 5-year strategic plan - Growth with Care - pairs business expansion with community benefits, envisioning more jobs and economic stimulus as the Port grows. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States.
Source: Port of Oakland