INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS: THE RESILIENT SUPPLY CHAIN

The current geopolitical context has a direct impact on the balance of the supply chain. The introduction of tariffs by the US government has led to an early and shorter peak season than in previous years. We are now seeing a slowdown in international trade, which is leading to overcapacity among shipowners. There will be numerous blank sailings in the coming weeks. In addition, the entry into force of the tax on ships built in China that will call at US ports is likely to further disrupt the current organization.

US CUSTOMS DUTIES

The introduction of customs duties, which vary depending on the country of origin, on August 7, 2025 for most of them, led to strong demand from importers at the beginning of the summer. Stocks were quickly replenished for the holiday season before August. As a result, imports into the United States have stagnated in the second half of the year.

It should be noted that China and the United States are still in negotiations to set their respective tariffs. Until November 10, they are set at 30% on Chinese products imported into the United States and 10% on American products imported into China.

DECLINE IN ACTIVITY AND GOLDEN WEEK

From a global perspective, all major shipping routes are affected by the decline in demand, including Asian imports. This is due to a slowdown in economic activity in both Europe and the Far East.

Golden Week in China is exacerbating the decline in exports, prompting shipping companies to implement blank sailings. As a result, capacity will decrease significantly in October and November from Asia, with up to six fewer ships departing in mid-October.

It should be noted that port congestion has decreased considerably in Northern European ports.

TAX ON CHINESE SHIPS

Another measure coming into effect on October 14, 2025 in the United States: the tax on ships built in China. This will be a progressive tax starting at $18 per net ton or $120 per container upon entry and rising to $33 per net ton or $250 per container in 2028, applicable up to five times per year per ship. The stated objective of the United States is to reduce Chinese dominance in American ports and encourage American shipbuilding and local jobs. 

However, an exemption will be made for ships under 4,000 TEU, those traveling less than 2,000 nautical miles, and those ordered before October 14, 2025, and built in the United States.

This increases the resilience of shipping companies, which are reorganizing their fleets by directing Chinese construction outside the United States or changing their rotations to call at ports in Canada or Mexico in order to avoid additional taxes.

Faced with these numerous impacts on supply chain, our Balguerie Group teams continuously monitor US tariff and tax developments and analyze maritime flows and routes to limit the impact on your shipments.