Fact Check: "Trump's 145% tariffs caused a 25% slowdown in container ships from China."
What We Know
The claim that "Trump's 145% tariffs caused a 25% slowdown in container ships from China" is based on the significant impact that these tariffs have had on trade patterns and shipping volumes. After the announcement of the tariffs, ocean container bookings from China to the United States reportedly dropped by 60% and remained low thereafter (AP News). Additionally, reports indicate that major shipping firms have responded by cancelling 25% of their sailings due to reduced demand (Reuters).
The Port of Los Angeles, one of the busiest ports in the U.S., has seen a 9% year-on-year drop in imports as of May 2025, with projections indicating that container imports could plunge by 25% in the immediate future (Washington Post). This slowdown is attributed to the tariffs, which have led to a significant reduction in orders from American businesses and a general decline in consumer confidence (Axios).
Analysis
While the claim that Trump's tariffs caused a 25% slowdown in container ships from China is partially accurate, it requires clarification. The 25% figure appears to relate specifically to the projected decrease in container imports at the Port of Los Angeles (Washington Post). However, the broader context shows that the tariffs have led to a 60% drop in bookings from China, indicating a more severe impact on shipping volumes overall (AP News).
The sources cited are generally reliable, with AP News and Reuters being established news organizations known for their journalistic standards. The Washington Post also provides credible reporting, particularly on economic and trade issues. However, it is important to note that the Axios article, while informative, reflects a more subjective interpretation of the tariffs' effects, as it includes comments from Trump suggesting that the slowdown is beneficial (Axios). This could introduce a bias in the framing of the impact of the tariffs.
Overall, while the tariffs have indeed led to a significant slowdown in shipping from China, the specific 25% figure should be understood in the context of broader shipping trends and the varying impacts across different ports and shipping routes.
Conclusion
Verdict: Partially True
The claim that "Trump's 145% tariffs caused a 25% slowdown in container ships from China" is partially true. The 25% figure is accurate in the context of projected declines at the Port of Los Angeles; however, it does not fully capture the broader impact of the tariffs, which have resulted in a 60% drop in container bookings from China. Thus, while the tariffs have significantly affected shipping volumes, the claim simplifies a more complex situation.
Sources
- Busiest US seaport takes hit from 145% China tariffs, ...
- Container shipping firms cull Asia-US service as Trump tariffs collapse ...
- Trump's tariffs loom over the economy as shipments from ...
- This Los Angeles port is among the first casualties of ...
- Trump: China tariffs slowing down ports is a "good thing" - Axios
- Ocean container bookings plummet as Trump's tariffs take effect
