The Northwest Seaport Alliance (NWSA), which manages the ports of Seattle and Tacoma, experienced a significant decline in international import volumes in June 2025. Specifically, international imports dropped by 27.3% compared to June 2024.
June 2025 Container Volume Performance
For June 2025, the total container volume, including both international and domestic shipments, reached 274,537 TEUs. This represents a 14.7% year-over-year (YoY) decrease compared to June 2024. However, it marks a positive rebound of 9.4% from May 2025 volumes. Specifically, exports fell by 8.4% in June compared to the previous year.
Year-to-Date (YTD) Performance in 2025
Despite the monthly fluctuations, the year-to-date volumes for 2025 remain positive, showing an overall increase of 5.1%.
- Imports have increased by 3.3% YTD.
- Exports have decreased by 3.5% YTD.
Domestic container volumes have shown consistent growth, rising by 1.9% YTD compared to 2024. Within domestic volumes:
- Alaska volumes grew by 0.6%.
- Hawaii volumes increased by a more substantial 8.9%.
Other cargo segments have faced challenges:
- Breakbulk volume decreased by 26.3% to 179,338 metric tonnes YTD. This decline is attributed to high interest rates and the ongoing impact of tariffs.
- Auto volumes dropped by 15.3% YTD, reflecting a broader slowdown in nationwide car sales.
Significant Economic Impact in 2023
An economic impact analysis conducted in 2023 underscored the substantial contributions of the NWSA, Port of Tacoma, and Port of Seattle to the regional economy. Collectively, these entities supported over 265,000 jobs, generating £17.7 billion ($23.7 billion) in wages and benefits and nearly £55 billion ($73 billion) in business output.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Port Technology
