Tariff Trouble: The New Trade War Fallout That’s Rocking Global Shipping

By Jonathan Pierce | Risk Consultant, Logistics Specialist & Coffee Addict

It’s happening again.

Another round of tit-for-tat tariffs is squeezing the life out of global trade—except this time, the gloves are off. The U.S. has just slapped a blanket 10% tariff on all imports, and in true geopolitical tennis, China fired back with a brutal 34% increase on U.S. goods. And while politicians bicker and posture, the logistics industry—yet again—is left holding the bag.

So, who’s getting hit the hardest? Let’s break it down.

1. Container Shipping: The Floating Punching Bag

If you thought container shipping had seen it all, think again.
According to Clarksons Research, 11% of global container volumes are now tariff-stricken. That’s more than double what we saw during the 2018–2019 U.S.–China trade dust-up, which already dragged the sector into a 0.5% contraction.

If this escalates? We’re talking 2009-level damage—a 9% drop in container trade isn’t just on the table; it’s eyeing the main course.

2. Automotive Sector: Slamming the Brakes

Remember when cars used to move freely across borders? Good times.
Now, 26% of all seaborne car trade is tariffed, forcing automakers to rework supply chains, slow production, and prep for price hikes that’ll make even luxury buyers wince.

If you’re shipping auto parts or finished vehicles, buckle up—it’s going to be a bumpy quarter.

3. Energy Commodities: A Fragile Balance

It’s a mixed bag in the energy world.

• LPG: 14% of trade volumes? Hit.

• Ethane: A painful 55% exposure.

• Dry bulk & LNG: Minimal direct exposure (2% and 1% respectively), but let’s not pretend they’re in the clear.

Once demand shifts or supply chains reroute, the indirect shockwaves hit everyone.

4. Agricultural Exports: A Slow-Burning Crisis

This one hurts.

13% of U.S. agricultural exports went to China in 2024—$18.2 billion worth.
With fresh tariffs choking that flow, American farmers and agribusinesses are left scrambling for new buyers… in a global market that’s already saturated.

Spoiler alert: that won’t happen overnight.

So, What Now?

These aren’t isolated incidents.

They’re a symptom of a global system that’s too fragile, too reactive, and frankly, too political for its own good.

If you’re in logistics, insurance, trade, or supply chain planning, this isn’t just news—it’s your call to adapt.
Fast.

Jonathan’s Take:
This isn’t about surviving the next tariff wave. It’s about building resilience into your shipping strategy, your contracts, and your cargo protection.
Because if there’s one thing you can count on in trade politics… it’s that the next punch is always coming.

📩 Let’s talk about how ICI can protect your shipments and mitigate the impact of these changes on your bottom line.