Welcome to this edition of The Risk Savvy Report, where we break down the latest headlines impacting supply chains around the world. Below are alerts from April 22 – May 12, 2025, from shifting tariff policies and rising bankruptcy risks to labor unrest and port disruptions.
The Latest on Tariffs
US and China reach a deal to slash sky-high tariffs for now, with a 90-day pause
The U.S. and China have agreed to a 90-day pause in escalating tariffs, easing import costs and boosting short-term market confidence. While both sides rolled back major duties, analysts warn the truce is fragile, leaving manufacturers and logistics providers uncertain about future trade dynamics
U.S. Ports Empty Ahead of Tariff Spike
Importers are racing against the clock, front-loading shipments to avoid impending tariff increases. This early rush has led to a sudden drop in current port activity, with facilities across the U.S. reporting empty berths and falling container volumes.
Maersk: US-China Trade War Will Reshape Global Container Demand
Shipping giant Maersk has issued a stark warning: escalating tensions between the U.S. and China may lead to a global decline in container demand. The shift could force realignment of shipping routes and logistics strategies worldwide.
LA & Long Beach Ports See 44% Drop in Docked Vessels
America’s busiest port complex is facing a sharp slowdown, with a 44% decrease in vessel traffic reported. Analysts attribute the drop to a combination of front-loaded imports and longer-term demand uncertainty tied to tariff escalation.
South Florida Ports Face Tariff Pressure
Tariff changes are expected to significantly alter import volumes at South Florida’s major shipping gateways. Stakeholders are bracing for longer customs processing times, rising costs, and rerouted shipments.
Learn more about how to successfully navigate tariffs.
Bankruptcies & Financial Risk
Rite Aid Files Second Bankruptcy, Shuttering Nearly 50 Stores
Pharmacy chain Rite Aid has entered bankruptcy for the second time, announcing the closure of close to 50 stores nationwide. The move highlights ongoing turbulence in retail supply chains and the challenges of balancing rising operating costs with shifting consumer behavior.
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Supply Chain & Freight Issues
Maersk Warns of Declining Container Volumes Amid Trade Tensions
In a follow-up to earlier statements, Maersk doubled down on its forecast of shrinking global container volume, signaling potential challenges for port operators, freight forwarders, and carriers reliant on East-West trade lanes.
6 Sea Robberies in Singapore Strait Raise Maritime Security Alarms
A spike in sea robberies—six reported incidents in April alone—has prompted new concerns over maritime safety in the Singapore Strait’s Phillip Channel, a critical shipping artery. Vessel operators are being urged to heighten onboard security protocols.
LA Port Trucking Jobs at Risk as Shipping Slows
With vessel calls down sharply, the slowdown is now hitting downstream logistics. Trucking companies serving the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are reporting reduced hours and looming layoffs as freight volumes decline.
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We hope these insights have enhanced your understanding of supplier risk in the global supply chain, making you evermore risk savvy.
