BY PATRICK BURNSON
Port of Oakland exports increased 10.8 percent in October compared to October 2018 volumes, according to data released last month. The port labeled the double-digit jump “positive” amid reports that the U.S.-China trade war is easing.
“Our export customers have demonstrated their resilience throughout this tariff standoff,” said Port of Oakland Maritime Director John Driscoll. “For their sake, we hope the conflict is resolved and overseas business can grow even more.”
The port said it shipped the equivalent of 87,393 20-foot export containers overseas in October. Most of that cargo went to Asian markets including China, which is Oakland’s leading trade partner. Through the first 10 months of 2018, Oakland exports were up 3.5 percent over last year, despite increased tariffs.
The port attributed export growth to a pair of factors: First, there was continued strong Asian demand for high-quality U.S. goods, especially farm products; and second, there were increased shipments to neighboring countries to counter Chinese volumes depressed by tariffs.
The U.S. and China had both indicated progress in talks to relieve trade tensions. According to reports, an accord could be near that rolls back some tariffs imposed over the past year. The port has been on record opposing the levies.
The port said that easing of the trade conflict would be welcomed by both export and import customers. Oakland import volume declined 4.6 in October, though it remains up 2.7 percent for the full year. Total volume, which measures imports, exports and empty container repositioning, is unchanged year-to-date from 2018.
