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Data for the first quarter of 2026 shows that imports from China to the Port of London skyrocketed, with a 250% increase compared to the first quarter of 2025.
The latest Quarterly Trade Report from the Port of London Authority (PLA) showed how challenging global trade conditions have contributed to a decrease in volumes passing through the port compared to 2025, although last year saw the highest trade volume at the port in 50 years.
Data from January to March 2026 shows that total cargo tonnage decreased by 7% from the previous quarter, reaching 13 million tonnes, and imports fell to their lowest level in two years. Consequently, oil tonnage decreased by 16% compared to the previous quarter, a level not seen since the first quarter of 2022, possibly as a result of the start of the conflict in the Middle East and the subsequent closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The recent downward trend in the volume of aggregates, essential for the construction industry, continues. A reduction has been recorded in six of the last seven quarters.
The data also shows a significant increase in the volume of goods from China arriving at the port. HMRC figures indicate an 8% increase in imports from China nationwide, compared to the first quarter of 2025. However, at the Port of London, this increase is 250%, demonstrating that more and more importers and shipping companies are choosing London as their preferred destination.
Steve Lockwood, Chief Financial Officer of the Port of London Authority, said that "2025 saw the highest trade volume at the Port of London in 50 years, so the slowdown observed in the first quarter of this year must be interpreted in that context of a very strong baseline. Of course, geopolitical issues can play a role, and this may also be reflected in the coming quarters."
"That said, we maintain our investment strategy in the Port of London to make it the most attractive and competitive destination for our customers. The huge increase in imports from China demonstrates the effectiveness of this approach. A 250% increase from the UK's third most important trading partner shows how more and more importers and shipping companies consider London their port of preference," the executive added.
Within that segment, some of the most important categories of imports from China are electronics and children's and baby items.
Source: Portal Portuario
