In the wake of the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in Japan, Port of Tacoma commissioners and staff members offer thoughts of hope and support as people work to recover and keep critical supply chains open.
“Tacoma has a strong, longstanding relationship with Japan through cultural exchanges and trade,” said Port Commission President Connie Bacon. “We send our thoughts and condolences to those who have been so deeply affected by this devastating disaster.”
Japan is the Port of Tacoma’s second-largest trading partner after China. Tacoma’s two-way trade with Japan in 2010 totaled $8.45 billion.
The top three exports through Tacoma to Japan are cereals (mostly corn), chemicals and precious metals (primarily silicon, silicon dioxide), and processed agricultural products (mostly frozen potatoes).
The top three imports from Japan through Tacoma are autos and parts, industrial machinery and computers, and electronics.
Evergreen and K Line shipping lines have services with container ships that call in Tokyo after leaving Tacoma. Because the Port of Tokyo was closed for inspection following Friday’s earthquake, short-term, occasional delays can be expected for arriving and departing ships.
The Port of Tacoma also imports autos from Mazda, Mitsubishi and Suzuki. No immediate damage-related impacts have been reported, although rolling power blackouts are likely to affect production until electricity supplies are stabilized.
It is too soon to know what longer-term impacts earthquake/tsunami damage and power supply issues might have on trade with Japan. Port staff, including the Port’s Asia director in Tokyo, continue to work with trading partners and customers to monitor the situation.
“We stand ready to serve our friends and partners in the recovery efforts,” said Port CEO John Wolfe.
About the Port of Tacoma
The Port of Tacoma is an economic engine for South Puget Sound, with more than 43,000 family-wage jobs in Pierce County and 113,000 jobs across Washington state connected to Port activities. A major gateway to Asia and Alaska, the Port of Tacoma is among the largest container ports in North America. The Port is also a major center for bulk, breakbulk and project/heavy-lift cargoes, as well as automobiles and trucks.