14 Apr 2025

More Than Just Tariffs: Identifying the Deeper Cracks in the Global System

Ray 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 […]

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14 Apr 2025

Tariffs Trigger Chaos as Carriers Slash Sailings

Ocean 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 […]

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13 Apr 2025

Global Shipping Industry Gripped by Uncertainty as U.S.-China Trade War Escalates

The 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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11 Apr 2025

Impact of Executive Order: “Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Trading Partner Retaliation and Alignment”

Overview of Tariff Adjustments Effective immediately, the Executive Order introduces revised reciprocal tariff rates to align with global trade dynamics and address retaliatory measures by trading partners. These changes aim to promote fair trade practices while supporting domestic industries. Updated Tariff Structure Products Originating from China, Hong Kong, or Macau Applicable tariffs include: Commodity-specific Most-Favored-Nation […]

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28 Mar 2025

SoCal Ports Overflowing: Import Surge Triggers Empty Container Crisis

A quick update on the current logistics landscape in Southern California and what shippers can do to mitigate potential disruptions: Import Surge and Empty Container Imbalance January saw a sharp increase in imports as shippers rushed to beat anticipated U.S. tariffs and Lunar New Year factory closures. Year-over-year import growth: Port of Long Beach: up […]

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27 Mar 2025

25% Tariffs on Autos, Light Trucks, and Auto Parts Effective April 3 or May 3

Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A. (ST&R) reports that on March 26, the President issued a proclamation imposing 25% tariffs on imported cars, light trucks, and specific vehicle parts under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, citing national security concerns. These tariffs are based on a 2019 investigation and newly submitted information from […]

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25 Mar 2025

Rising Cargo Crime Spurs Urgent Call for Federal Task Force and Tougher Penalties

With cargo theft and fraud on the rise, transportation and shipping organizations are urging the U.S. House of Representatives to pass legislation that would create a multi-agency federal task force to tackle cargo crime and strengthen penalties against offenders. The primary legislation in focus is the Safeguarding Our Supply Chains Act, introduced in June, alongside […]

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21 Mar 2025

U.S. Shipping Industry Sounds Alarm Over Proposed $1M Fee on Chinese Vessels

While major container lines and their largest customers have remained largely silent on the Trump administration’s proposed $1 million per U.S. port call fee for Chinese vessels, smaller maritime and container trade stakeholders are voicing strong opposition ahead of the comment period deadline on Monday. In submissions to the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) before Monday’s […]

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