As June 2025 unfolds, global logistics are navigating a complex mix of tariff-related disruptions, legal rulings, infrastructure developments, and supply chain shifts. Importers, freight forwarders, and carriers are under pressure as they manage rising costs, fluctuating demand, and tighter regulations. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most critical updates affecting international freight operations.
Tariff-Driven Import Rush
The temporary rollback of U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports has triggered a short 90-day window of opportunity for shippers. Many are rushing to move goods while they still can, leading to capacity shortages, rising rates, and increased port congestion. Carriers are scrambling to redeploy vessels to the Trans-Pacific trade lanes, but available bookings remain tight, with shipments often delayed or canceled. Warehouse space, especially in bonded zones and foreign trade areas, is quickly filling up. Importers are urged to plan ahead, track purchase orders closely, and lock in space before the window closes.
IEEPA Tariff Legal Whiplash
On May 28, the U.S. Court of International Trade ruled President Trump’s IEEPA tariffs overstepped executive authority, ordering a halt to their collection by June 7. However, the next day, an appeals court issued a stay, reinstating the tariffs pending further legal review. Affected tariffs include sweeping duties on goods from China, Mexico, and Canada. Importers must continue paying these tariffs for now, with no refund process in place. Recordkeeping is crucial, as the case could extend into months and even reach the Supreme Court.
Carriers Expand Asia-U.S. Services
To meet growing demand from Asia, ocean carriers are launching new express and regional services. Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will begin a new route from Xiamen to Long Beach on June 24, while MSC and HMM are reopening loops to key U.S. and Southeast Asian ports. These adjustments aim to relieve bottlenecks and offer alternatives to overbooked trade lanes.
Trucking Compliance Modernization
The FMCSA is proposing 18 regulatory changes to reduce outdated paperwork and modernize compliance. Highlights include eliminating the need for CDL holders to self-report violations and allowing digital access to ELD instructions. These proposals aim to streamline carrier operations, cut administrative burdens, and improve data sharing between federal and state systems.
Cyber Threats Target Logistics Firms
U.S. and European logistics firms are under attack from Russian-backed hackers targeting aid and commercial cargo routes, particularly those linked to Ukraine. While the goal is intelligence gathering rather than disruption, the risk remains high. Companies are advised to tighten cybersecurity protocols and monitor vendor systems to avoid data breaches.
Other Notable Updates
- Air Cargo Rebalancing: E-commerce slowdowns and new tariffs are reducing demand on trans-Pacific routes. Carriers are shifting capacity to more profitable lanes like Asia–Europe.
- CBP Manifest Changes: Starting June 3, truck manifests must be finalized before reaching the border, or risk rejection and delays.
- Silicon Metal Investigation: Imports from five countries are now under scrutiny for potential dumping and subsidies.
- CMA CGM Returns to Suez: The carrier is cautiously resuming Suez Canal routes, betting on improved Red Sea security.
- Marine Insurance Importance: With rising uncertainty, marine insurance is more critical than ever for cargo protection.
As the global freight market continues to evolve, proactive planning, digital agility, and risk management will be key to navigating the weeks ahead.
Source:
https://southernstarnavigation.com/june-2025-logistics-update-tariffs-court-ruling/?
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