Washington State Businesses Struggle with Trade Issues in 2025

Intermediate Level | May 6, 2025

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Trouble at the Ports

Trade Pressures Mount in 2025

In 2025, many Washington State businesses are facing serious trade problems. Long delays at ports, stricter global shipping rules, and rising fuel and logistics costs are making it harder for companies to send and receive goods on time. These issues are not just logistical—they’re starting to hurt the bottom line.

Port Congestion at Seattle and Tacoma

Seattle and Tacoma, two of the busiest ports on the U.S. West Coast, are currently experiencing severe backlogs of ships and containers. Some vessels are waiting days, even weeks, to unload cargo. Exporters in agriculture, such as apple and wheat farmers, are especially affected, as their goods are time-sensitive and spoil if not shipped promptly. Tech manufacturers are also suffering from delays in receiving components critical to production.

Climate Rules Slow Down Shipping

Adding to these difficulties are new international regulations that limit carbon emissions from large cargo ships. These rules require slower travel speeds and new equipment that’s still being installed in many fleets. As a result, shipping schedules have been disrupted, and carriers have raised their prices to cover environmental compliance costs.

Industry Leaders Call for Government Help

Many business leaders in Washington are urging federal and state governments to step in. They are calling for strategic investment in port infrastructure, more efficient customs and inspection systems, and trade agreements that reduce friction in global supply chains. Some have even asked for temporary subsidies or tax relief to offset increased costs.

Small Exporters Feel the Pinch

While a few larger companies have been able to reroute through Canadian or Southern California ports, most small- to mid-sized exporters don’t have that flexibility. For them, the combination of delays, higher fees, and complex regulations is creating a perfect storm. Many say the current system is not just frustrating—it’s putting local industries at a long-term competitive disadvantage.

Vocabulary

Exporters (noun): Companies that sell products to other countries.
Example: Apple growers are major exporters in Washington.
Backlog (noun): A buildup of work or things waiting to be done.
Example: There’s a backlog of ships waiting to enter the port.
Shipment (noun): A delivery of goods.
Example: The shipment of parts arrived late.
Regulation (noun): A rule made by the government.
Example: New regulations are affecting shipping speeds.
Infrastructure (noun): The basic systems needed for a country or city to work.
Example: Good roads and ports are part of strong infrastructure.
Customs (noun): The official checks at a border or port.
Example: The package was delayed at customs.
Compete (verb): To try to be better than others in the same market.
Example: U.S. companies must compete with foreign businesses.
Disadvantage (noun): Something that makes success harder.
Example: Slow shipping puts companies at a disadvantage.
Adapt (verb): To change in order to deal with a new situation.
Example: Businesses must adapt to new trade rules.
Climate standards (noun): Rules to reduce environmental impact.
Example: Ships must meet new climate standards in 2025.

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

What are some of the trade problems in Washington State?
How are port delays affecting businesses?
What do the new shipping regulations require?
What help do business leaders want from the government?
Why do some companies feel at a disadvantage now?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

Have you ever experienced a delay in receiving a product?
Do you think climate rules for shipping are necessary?
What should governments do to support trade?
How important is trade to your local economy?
What industries are most affected by shipping problems?

Related Idiom

“Red tape”
Meaning: Complicated rules or procedures that slow things down.
Example: “We lost a big client because of too much red tape at customs.”

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This article was inspired by Bloomberg, May 6, 2025.

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