Ongoing uncertainty around the Trump administration’s shifting tariff policies is disrupting the usual schedule for signing annual service contracts between ocean carriers and importers on the eastbound trans-Pacific trade lane. According to sources cited by the Journal of Commerce, negotiations that typically conclude by late April for contracts starting May 1 have been delayed by […]
Read MoreA renewed push to revive US commercial shipbuilding is stirring debate, following the Biden administration’s decision—carried over from a Trump-era stance—to levy steep fines on Chinese-built and Chinese-owned vessels. Announced on April 17 by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), the policy aims to send a “demand signal for US-built ships,” according […]
Read MoreA recent report from consultancy firm Trade Partnership Worldwide has raised concerns over the potential impact of heightened tariffs and port fees on the US apparel trade. If current tariff hikes become permanent and additional fees on Chinese vessels are enforced, the US could see a noticeable decline in clothing imports, the study warns. While […]
Read MoreThe U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has announced its final actions regarding the Section 301 investigation into China’s shipbuilding industry, introducing significant changes from the initial proposals. Key Changes and Fee Structure: Revised Fees: Instead of a flat fee, new fees will be based on vessel net tonnage (NT) or container count and will apply per […]
Read MoreRising trade tensions between the United States and China are expected to trigger significant shifts in Asia’s supply chain dynamics, as regional manufacturers look to diversify markets and mitigate risks, according to Indian industry sources. Speaking to the Journal of Commerce, several experts noted that Chinese exporters, grappling with declining demand from the US due […]
Read MoreAmerica’s advanced weapons manufacturers are facing a looming shortage of critical rare-earth minerals, largely due to new export licensing restrictions imposed by China. The move, a response to rising trade tensions under former President Donald Trump’s administration, threatens to disrupt supply chains essential to the U.S. defense and aerospace sectors. According to the Center for […]
Read MoreBusinesses are being advised to reassess their procurement and supply chain strategies as the effects of U.S. tariffs ripple across global trade, driving up shipping costs and prices on a wide array of goods. The sweeping tariff measures imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, along with retaliatory actions from major trade partners, have thrown supply […]
Read MoreRay Dalio in Principles argues that while current events like tariffs grab headlines and have significant impacts, they are merely symptoms of much larger, more fundamental shifts underway. Focusing solely on these immediate events, attributed often to specific political figures like President Trump, distracts from the underlying breakdown of the major monetary/economic, domestic political, and […]
Read MoreOcean carriers operating on the eastbound trans-Pacific trade are preparing to cancel more sailings following a surge in booking cancellations last week. The uncertainty surrounding steep U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods is prompting shippers to pause or abandon freight plans, potentially leaving vessels departing China half-empty well into May. Gene Seroka, Executive Director of the […]
Read MoreThe global maritime sector is navigating turbulent waters as the U.S.-China trade war continues to fuel widespread uncertainty. Industry leaders say the constantly evolving tariff landscape has made long-term planning nearly impossible. Jacob Winthereik, interim CEO of Lauritzen Bulkers, noted that with new tariffs being introduced or modified almost weekly, the industry sees no signs […]
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