Effects of U.S. trade policy increasingly noticeable

The container sector is under pressure due to disrupted trade flows and geopolitical developments. In the span of one month, shipping companies worldwide have withdrawn 80 container ships from service or adjusted their routes, amounting to approximately 20% of total capacity. This even surpasses the lowest point of the COVID-19 crisis, highlighting that the effects of the new U.S. trade policy are now clearly being felt in the maritime industry.

Multiple sources indicate that the trade war between the United States and China is directly influencing these developments. Especially the shipping routes between China and the U.S. East Coast have been badly affected, experiencing a capacity reduction of nearly 40%. As a result, businesses are facing higher costs, longer delivery times, and growing uncertainty within the logistics chain.

The port of Rotterdam is also feeling the impact of these shifts, though the exact consequences remain unclear for now. However, the logistics port system has been disrupted due to destabilizing actions, increasing pressure on a system designed for efficiency. Shipping companies, shippers, and logistics service providers will need to adapt to changing market conditions to mitigate disruptions and safeguard the continuity of supply chains.