Commerce between local ports and Japan is expected to falter in coming weeks as the earthquake-stricken nation recovers from an 9.0-temblor that largely wrecked a major seaport on its northeast coast.

Japanese companies operate three of the globe’s largest ocean carriers, MOL, NYK Line and “K” Line, all of whom make regular calls to Long Beach and Los Angeles and who were deeply affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.

Port of Long Beach Spokesman Art Wong said the impact may not be known for several days.

Read more in the Press-Telegram