Great Lakes cargo traffic falls 23% amid US-Canada trade friction

Cargo traffic at Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway ports, including Duluth-Superior, declined by 23% through August compared to the previous year. The drop affects the $6 trillion regional economy. US tariffs and rising political tensions between Washington and Ottawa disrupt binational supply chains. Lower coal volumes and tariffs on steel and iron ore are cited as primary drivers of the decline. Industry stakeholders warn that continued friction could cause permanent damage to maritime commerce, even though officials have indicated a potential willingness to negotiate. US shipping groups identify regulatory disparities and fleet competition as key concerns. Canadian operators note structural shortages in shipyard capacity.