Vessel tracking data shows cargoes are being diverted to UK due to US tariffs

Cargo traffic at UK ports increased in April, according to Capital Economics, Europe’s largest macroeconomic consultancy. More than 400 commercial ships called at major British ports each week this month, according to the ONS. This indicator has nearly returned to the level seen two years ago.

Experts attribute this growth to Donald Trump’s imposition of import tariffs in the US. British ports are seeing increased volumes of Chinese goods originally intended for American markets, as companies navigate new trade restrictions. According to Bloomberg experts, exporters from China will likely have to reduce their supply costs to remain competitive in the new market.

Increased competition among suppliers could lower the price of goods, potentially leading to reduced inflation in the UK and supporting further reductions in borrowing costs, the agency said. The state government has promised to protect domestic companies from the potential effects of dumping.