No Safe Harbor

In this week’s Roar: Tariffs lead the news again, the Middle East conflict, record increases in Asian imports, why some high-end brands are suffering, and this year’s peak season.

U.S. trade policy remains in a state of flux as President Trump continues on the tariff trail, keeping businesses and global partners guessing. On Friday, Trump broke off trade talks with Canada over its digital tax. He indicated new tariffs on Canadian goods will be announced in the next seven days. And earlier in the week, a White House Spokesperson said the President will be flexible when it comes to the July 9 deadline for the pause to end many of the broader reciprocal tariffs. The rapid shifts are causing confusion as some measures face legal challenges, including a court injunction currently on appeal. Companies are scrambling to keep up as things change week by week.

Fears from the now-paused Middle East conflict are easing after a tense week. In a positive step, Maersk has restarted service in the region, including Israel’s Port of Haifa. And, the Strait of Hormuz has remained open after threats of closure. 20% of the world’s oil and 2-3% of cargo move through the strait, making it of significant importance to the global supply chain. There are reports of the area’s vessel identification system being intentionally disrupted with the goal of avoiding malicious targeting of specific ships.

Asian exporters raced to ship goods to the US before President Trump’s tariffs return in July. This led to record exports from Vietnam, Taiwan, and Thailand in May. This activity has pushed up the US trade deficit with Asia while reversing typical seasonal trends where shipments peak ahead of the holiday season, not summer. Taiwanese shipments soared nearly 90%, while Vietnam’s and Thailand’s rose 35% year-over-year. This could complicate trade talks, as Trump weighs steep new duties that could quickly chill export volumes and regional growth.

Supply chain disruptions have become more frequent and severe, especially impacting brands with high-value goods like electronics or medical equipment. These products require specialized care due to their fragility and strategic importance. But most logistics options are either generic and risky or overly expensive, leaving brands stuck in the middle. As customer expectations rise and disruptions increase, it means logistics partners need to provide both flexibility and dependable service with the use of hybrid models that combine efficiency with hands-on attention.

This year’s peak season outlook is getting shaped by ongoing tariff uncertainty and shifting trade policies, and it’s leaving logistics professionals with more questions than answers. A Logistics Management survey shows only 27% expect a busier season, with many citing tariffs, market disruptions, and recession fears as dampening demand and operational plans. Port volumes are down, and capacity management is tricky, with last-minute tariff changes making planning difficult. Shippers are accelerating deliveries ahead of July’s tariff pause deadline, but delayed shipments and rising prices could impact holiday retail performance and inventory levels through the rest of 2025.

For the rest of the week’s top shipping news, check out the article highlights below.