Trump’s China Tariffs Begin to Disrupt U.S. Supply Chains, with Retailers Facing Looming Inventory Gaps

U.S. ports are beginning to feel the effects of Trump’s 145% tariffs on Chinese imports, with cargo traffic dropping sharply and retailers warning of upcoming shortages. Executive Director of the Port of Los Angeles Gene Seroka told CNBC that shipments from China have "essentially ceased," with cargo expected to fall 35% next week. The Port of Seattle experienced a 20% increase in cargo traffic during the first four months of 2025, according to the Northwest Seaport Alliance. Retailers rushed to front-load shipments ahead of Trump’s tariff hike, resulting in record import activity earlier this year. Experts warn that these stockpiles are temporary, and companies will soon depend on limited inventories while awaiting further developments.