Exports from the Port of Long Beach soared 22% in April, part of a surge in shipping volume that has come amid growing tension in trans-Pacific trade. Photo: Tim Rue/Bloomberg NewsLOS ANGELES—Shipments from the biggest U.S. West Coast ports to Asia are picking up steam in a sign that companies are stepping up orders ahead of anticipated new trade restrictions. That made April the biggest month for exports at the largest seaport complex in North America since March 2017. “Anxiety is driving the export trade,” said Jock O’Connell, an international trade economist based in California. China represents roughly half of the exports that move through Southern California’s ports, Mr. O’Connell said.

Source: Wall Street Journal May 14, 2018 21:45 UTC