Most route changes involve shipments between China and the United States. The sharp increase in U.S. import duties has caused a significant drop in trade between the two countries. As of April 17, an additional tariff has been introduced for Chinese vessels. This charge not only applies to ships sailing under the Chinese flag, but also to those built in China but registered under another flag. These vessels now face higher costs when docking at U.S. ports, adding pressure to container carriers.
Evofenedex compares container shipping to a bus line with fixed stops. When a ship is cancelled, multiple ports are immediately affected. The impact is also felt by logistics companies in Rotterdam, where the current situation is described as “complete chaos,” with severe delays in ports such as Rotterdam. Many exporters are postponing shipments, while others have been waiting weeks for deliveries or are unable to get their goods on board at all.
The consequences go beyond delays. With fewer inbound containers arriving in the U.S., American exporters also struggle to ship their products abroad. Experts warn this could lead to empty shelves in U.S. stores and rising consumer prices.
Years of fierce competition have made global sea logistics highly efficient but also vulnerable, with slim profit margins. The current disruptions highlight this fragility. Ports that normally handle low volumes are suddenly overwhelmed, while key hubs like Rotterdam face growing congestion.
Although there is some hope for a trade agreement between the U.S. and China, Evofenedex warns that such a deal will not bring immediate relief. It could take months for the market to recover from the current disruption.
Source: NOS
Photo: Shutterstock
