Port of Los Angeles Jobs: 50% Decline
the Port of Los Angeles is reeling: Job opportunities have plummeted by 50% due to the ripple effects of tariffs. This drastic decline, impacting longshoremen and local businesses alike, reveals a significant downturn in cargo processing, with a 25% decrease reported in May.Reduced cargo volume translates to fewer work shifts, and the strain is being felt throughout the community, with local businesses suffering.Senator Alex Padilla warns of potential empty shelves and rising prices as a outcome. For insights from the front lines, look to News Directory 3. Discover what’s next as the Port navigates these turbulent economic waters.
Tariffs Impact Port of Los Angeles, Causing Job Losses
Updated June 07, 2025
President Trump’s tariffs are impacting global trade, leading to fewer job opportunities at the Port of Los Angeles, a major economic driver. the port has seen a meaningful decrease in activity, affecting longshoremen and surrounding businesses.
gene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los angeles, stated that nearly half of the longshoremen supporting port operations experienced unemployment in the past two weeks. Cargo processing fell 25% below projected figures for May.
Reduced cargo volume, attributed to the tariffs, has led to a decline in available work. Over the last 25 shifts, only 733 jobs were available for 1,575 longshoremen seeking employment. This contrasts sharply with typical shifts, which usually offer between 1,100 and 2,000 job orders.
The impact extends beyond the port itself. Senator Alex Padilla noted the potential for empty shelves, rising prices, and increased unemployment due to the tariffs.
The ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach contribute significantly to the local economy. A 2023 report indicated they generate $21.8 billion in direct revenue,$2.7 billion in state and local taxes, and support 165,462 jobs.A mere 1% cargo decline could eliminate thousands of jobs.
“Outside of COVID, this is the biggest drop I’ve seen in my career,” Seroka said, highlighting the severity of the situation for small businesses near the harbor.
What’s next
The Port of Los Angeles anticipates continued challenges, with June projections falling short of traditional levels. The number of ships entering the port daily has decreased from the typical 10-12 to an average of five, signaling ongoing economic strain due to the tariffs and reduced global trade.