The outcome of the 2024 U.S. election has sparked discussions about its impact on international trade, particularly regarding a possible rise in ocean container shipping rates. Trump has indicated plans for sweeping tariffs, including a 20% duty on all imports and up to 100% on Chinese goods, which could heighten trade tensions and increase global shipping costs.
During Trump’s first term, previous tariff hikes were associated with a 70% surge in ocean freight rates, according to data from Xeneta, underscoring the potential financial impact on global logistics.
Industry perspectives are mixed: while some express concerns that additional tariffs could increase costs and disrupt supply chains, others see opportunities to boost domestic manufacturing and support the U.S. trucking industry. Insights from Supply Chain Dive illustrate this divide, offering a glimpse into the range of views on how a second Trump presidency might affect the logistics sector.