Tariffs down, but the container chaos continues.

Global trade is on the move again – and not in a calm way.

After months of rising tensions, the United States and China recently agreed in Geneva to significantly lower their mutual import tariffs for the next ninety days. A temporary truce, so to speak. But the unrest at sea and in global logistics is far from over.

U.S. tariffs of 145% on Chinese imports have been temporarily reduced to 30%. China has lowered its own tariffs from 125% to 10%. Both countries hope to ease trade tensions and resolve their disputes over the next three months.

While this is a step in the right direction, uncertainty remains high. Many companies are postponing shipments or choosing alternative routes. U.S. retailers have canceled orders from Chinese factories. And the global impact is already visible:

• In April, China’s industrial activity saw its sharpest decline in over a year

• Container shipping between Shanghai and Los Angeles halved

• Ongoing uncertainty is causing businesses to hit the brakes

Impact on global logistics

Trump’s trade policy adds to existing tensions in maritime transport. Consider the rerouting caused by the unsafe situation in the Red Sea. As a result:

• Shipping lines have temporarily taken eighty container ships out of service

• Many vessels are avoiding the Suez Canal and sailing around Africa instead

• Waiting times in Rotterdam and Antwerp are increasing, ports are becoming congested

• Delivery times are lengthening, and global costs are rising

What can your company do?

• Prepare for ongoing uncertainty – plan for multiple scenarios

• Diversify your suppliers (where possible) and spread risks across different routes

• Stay in close contact with your logistics partners for real-time updates

At Akomar, we understand how unpredictable global trade can be. That’s why we offer:

• Smart route planning: tailored alternatives using real-time data

• Cost insight: we analyze the impact of every shift on your supply chain

• Personalized advice: tuned to your industry, products, and routes

Calm seas are still a long way off. But with Akomar, you’ll stay on course – even when the world around you shifts.