In week 25, 2010, total traffic for all imports entering U.S. ports was up 19% over the same period in 2009, according to U.S. import market data compiled by Zepol Corp. For the year-to-date, imports are up 14% over 2009.
Continuing a year-long trend, during week 25, the biggest gainer in imports are chemicals, which are up 123% compared to a year ago. For the year-to-date, chemicals are up 81%. Other categories showing significant increases in imports are steel (up 49% for the week), and autos and parts (up 35%). Wood/pulp imports (down 33% for the week) and furniture (down 26%) continue to be in decline.