The recent tariff policy implemented by President Donald Trump has sparked a wave of uncertainty in the global logistics and cargo insurance industries. These protectionist measures not only threaten to congest ports but could also drive freight rates to alarming levels.
Impact on ports and customs
The U.S. tariff policy, which includes the reinstatement of 25% tariffs on products from Mexico and Canada and 10% on Chinese goods, has caused significant turmoil in the logistics sector. Companies are rushing shipments to avoid additional costs, leading to overcrowding at ports and customs checkpoints. This situation not only increases delivery times but also disrupts last-mile logistics and inventory distribution.
The uncertainty generated by these measures has prompted many companies to explore alternative strategies to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on imports from Mexico and China. However, reconfiguring trade routes is not an easy task and could take time, further worsening the situation.
Containers on pause
Additionally, the tariff policy could lead to a decline in global container movement. While shipping lines may benefit in the short term from expedited shipments, the long-term lack of predictability and multilateral coordination could have negative effects on the sector. The U.S. trade imbalance, with a deficit of approximately $1.1 trillion, is another factor adding pressure to the situation.
This scenario has created an uncertain and challenging outlook for the logistics and cargo insurance industries. Port congestion and rising freight rates are just some of the immediate consequences of these measures. Companies must prepare to face these challenges and develop mitigation strategies to ensure the continuity of their operations.
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Sources:
Política arancelaria de EE.UU. podría generar congestión portuaria e impulsar las tarifas de fletes. (s. f.). MundoMaritimo. https://www.mundomaritimo.cl/noticias/politica-arancelaria-de-eeuu-podria-generar-congestion-portuaria-e-impulsar-las-tarifas-de-fletes
Carrera, I. (2025, 27 febrero). El plan de Trump de imponer tasas a los buques chinos hace temblar a la supply chain. EL MERCANTIL | Actualidad Sobre el Negocio de la Logística. https://elmercantil.com/2025/02/27/el-plan-de-trump-de-imponer-tasas-a-los-buques-chinos-hace-temblar-a-la-supply-chain/
