This follows a record year in 2020.
The spike is also attributed to retailers stocking up for holidays.
August is expected to be the busiest month of the July-October “peak season” but retailers are ordering less merchandise.
Imports at major U.S. retail container ports are expected to remain significantly below last year’s levels into this fall.
The numbers are still below last year.
The economic recovery will be gradual and retailers will adjust the amount of merchandise they import, according to NRF.
Declines expected to continue amid pandemic.
Factory shutdowns and travel restrictions in China continue to affect production.
President Trump is scheduled to sign a “Phase One” partial trade deal with China on Wednesday.
New 15 percent tariffs took effect this month and are set to be expanded on Dec. 15.
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