California ports hit by coronavirus

Two Californian ports (Los Angeles and Long Beach) have reported continued disruption to the supply chain as coronavirus (COVID-19) takes its toll on port and shipping operations. Both have said cargo volumes are down as a result of the virus.

The Port of Los Angeles said it moved 544,037 TEUs in February, (a 22.9 per cent decrease compared to February 2019), while the Port of Long Beach said it moved 538,428 TEUs, which is 9.8 per cent down on February 2019.

Gene Seroka, Port of Los Angeles Executive Director, said: “It’s no surprise that Trans-Pacific maritime trade has been significantly impacted”.

He added: “As factory production in China remains at low levels, we expect soft volumes in March. Looking ahead to anticipated manufacturing improvements, we will need to return empty containers to Asia and push lingering U.S. export boxes out swiftly.”

Mario Cordero, Executive Director of the Port of Long Beach, said he acknowledged the “lingering effects” of the US-China trade war and the Chinese New Year impact on shipping, in addition to coronavirus: “With the extended factory closures and slowdown of goods movement in China and other Asian countries in February due to Lunar New Year and COVID-19, we are seeing shipping lines needing to cancel some sailings.”

Elswhere, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has announced that Rick Cotton, Executive Director, has tested positive for the virus, “but is maintaining a full schedule while quarantined”.

For more information visit californiaports.org

13th March 2020