Imports to the U.S. were up 11% in April from March and up 9% year-over-year, according to Panjiva. Previous years’ March to April changes: +23% in 2013, +11% in 2012, +7% in 2011, +4% in 2010, +10% in 2009, and +8% in 2008.
The number of global manufacturers shipping to the U.S. increased 10% in April from March. March to April changes in previous years: +13% in 2013, +9% in 2012, +6% in 2011, +3% in 2010, +8% in 2009, and -1% in 2008.
“April numbers create a positive trend begun in March,” Panjiva states in its most recent report. “In line with previous years, we are seeing imports increase from February, into March and into April. This month, we see an increase in the number of active suppliers driving the increased imports; active suppliers are up +10% in April over March. We’re only one month in, but this is a good start to Q2 2014. We hope to see this trend strengthen and continue into the summer.”