Navigating Global Trade Shifts: Why U.S. Container Imports Declined in November While the World Grows Stronger

In the ever-evolving world of international supply chains, trade truly does go where it's wanted and stays where it's appreciated. As highlighted in recent analysis by Stuart Chirls, November 2025 marked a stark divergence: global container demand surged 7.2% year-over-year, driven by robust growth across most regions—yet U.S. import volumes fell 3.9%, the eighth consecutive month of declines tied closely to ongoing trade tensions under President Trump's policies.

This isn't just a blip—it's a signal of structural change in global trade flows.

The Numbers Tell the Story

According to Container Trades Statistics (CTS), which tracks volumes at the point of loading:

• Global container volumes (excluding North America) grew a robust 10.1% year-over-year.

• Sub-Saharan Africa led the pack with an impressive 25.5% import growth.

• Major routes out of Asia showed strong redirection: Africa up 34.2%, Indian Subcontinent & Middle East 20.2%, Latin America and Europe both around 15.5%.

• In contrast, Trans-Pacific volumes to North America dropped 4.7%.

U.S.-bound imports continue to trend downward, as shown in SONAR and similar freight indices tracking year-over-year declines:

The blue and red lines in these charts illustrate the persistent pullback in U.S. container traffic from late 2024 through November 2025—a pattern directly linked to tariff impacts, frontloading earlier in the year, and importers reassessing sourcing strategies.

Implications for Businesses in 2026

For U.S.-based companies reliant on imported goods—whether raw materials, components, or finished products—this shift presents both challenges and opportunities:

• Higher Costs and Delays — Tariffs and redirected flows increase landed costs, extend lead times, and strain domestic inventory management.

• Supply Chain Vulnerabilities — Over-reliance on traditional Asia-North America lanes exposes businesses to volatility.

• Strategic Advantages — Those who adapt quickly can diversify sourcing to growing markets (e.g., nearshoring in Latin America, partnerships in Africa or the Middle East), reduce tariff exposure, and build more resilient networks.

The old adage holds: trade flows to welcoming markets. As Asia's exports pivot to regions with fewer barriers, global growth continues while U.S. volumes contract.

How Gain Consulting Can Help You Stay Ahead

At Gain Consulting LLC, we specialize in helping businesses navigate these turbulent trade waters. Our expertise includes:

• Supply chain optimization and diversification strategies

• Tariff impact assessments and mitigation planning

• Sourcing alternative suppliers in emerging high-growth regions

• Data-driven forecasting using tools like CTS, SONAR, and global trade analytics

Whether you're facing rising costs from redirected imports or seeking ways to capitalize on new trade corridors, our team can provide tailored insights to protect your margins and position your business for long-term success.

Don't let trade policy surprises disrupt your operations—reach out to Gain Consulting today for a complimentary consultation. Let's turn these global shifts into your competitive advantage.

Contact us or visit our website to learn more.

Trade evolves—smart businesses evolve faster. Stay informed, stay agile.