Port of Los Angeles Marks Highest Cargo Volume in 118-Year History; Mayor Bass Recognizes Dedicated and Skilled ILWU Workforce

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September Volume Tops More Than 1 Million Container Units, Supporting Thousands of Good-Paying, Union Jobs

LOS ANGELES - Mayor Karen Bass today celebrated that in September, the Port of Los Angeles experienced its best month ever, handling more than 1 million container units. This marks the busiest month in the Port's 118-year history. As the busiest port in the Western Hemisphere, the Port of Los Angeles is a gateway for international trade and provides thousands of Angelenos with good-paying union jobs.

"After its best month in history, the Port of Los Angeles remains an incredible economic engine both locally and nationally, creating good-paying, union jobs for Angelenos and maintaining Los Angeles' status as a global competitor for trade and commerce," said Mayor Bass. "I want to thank Port Executive Director Gene Seroka for his leadership and give special recognition to the hardworking men and women of the ILWU for their continued commitment to the Port's success. Los Angeles is strong because our Port is strong, and none of this would be possible without our talented, dedicated, and skilled workforce."

"Every day, the hardworking women and men of the ILWU show up on our waterfront, move the cargo, and keep our Port running," said Councilmember Tim McOsker. "They are the backbone of our waterfront and their skill and dedication are a big part of why the Port of Los Angeles continues to lead the nation. This is a proud moment for POLA, our workforce, and our Harbor communities."

The record month also capped the busiest quarter in Port history, with nearly 3 million cargo units moving across its docks from July through September. From June through September, the Port handled nearly 4 million cargo units, the strongest four-month stretch on record.

"September was a month for the record books, and it was part of an extraordinary run for the Port of Los Angeles. Consumer demand remains resilient, importers are replenishing inventories and more cargo is being allocated to Los Angeles as shippers navigate continued challenges along other global trade routes," said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. "Our waterfront workforce and supply chain partners have done a tremendous job handling these record volumes while keeping cargo moving. After the best month, quarter and four-month stretch in Port history, our focus is simple: finish the year strong and keep delivering for our customers."

Mayor Bass has prioritized investments in the Port of Los Angeles and surrounding harbor communities to create good-paying, union jobs, strengthen the supply chain, address the affordability crisis, and bolster LA's climate resilience:

• She signed a historic partnership between the City, State and labor groups to shape the future of the Vincent Thomas Bridge which will strengthen L.A.'s supply chain by making sure more cargo comes to Los Angeles so we remain competitive.

• She announced that her L.A. Harbor Commissioners have approved $66.5 million in funding to expand road infrastructure and create new pedestrian walkways along the L.A. Waterfront, which will host sailing competitions during the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games.

• She celebrated the groundbreaking of the new $152 million Avalon Pedestrian Bridge and Promenade Gateway project in Wilmington, which will provide pedestrian and bicycle access to the Wilmington Waterfront Promenade and transform 12 acres of former industrial land into community-centered spaces for residents.

• She released her Climate Action Plan for Los Angeles, setting clear goals for the Port of Los Angeles to reduce emissions by investing in zero-emission trucks, infrastructure, and green shipping corridors.