US traffic down to 2002 levels

Figures released in the US suggest that the countrys ports will handle 12.3m teu in 2009, equivalent to an 18.8% year-on-year drop – the fewest containers handled since 2002.

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There were 24 consecutive monthly declines up to June this year. However, double digit decreases are expected to give way to single figure decreases by the end of this year.