This week, U.S. tariffs targeting Chinese-built vessels sparked fears of rising shipping costs and supply chain disruptions. Meanwhile, the New American Industrial Alliance (NAIA) grows as companies like Formic push for domestic manufacturing and automation. In Canada, Prime Minister Mark Carney plans a snap election amid U.S. trade tensions. The FMC investigates global chokepoints like the Suez and Panama Canals, while the Port of LA warns of potential declines as companies adjust import strategies to dodge tariffs. Read the full articles below.
Weekly Freight Report: March 21, 2025
March 21st, 2025
Maritime Industry Warns USTR’s China Port Fees Could Sink U.S. Economy
Industry leaders warn that proposed tariffs on Chinese-built and operated ships could significantly harm U.S. trade, raising shipping costs, disrupting supply chains, and increasing consumer prices without effectively boosting U.S. shipbuilding.
New American Industrial Alliance Grows As Tariffs Boost Domestic Manufacturing
Formic joins the New American Industrial Alliance (NAIA) to boost U.S. manufacturing by promoting automation and workforce development, highlighting how tariffs are driving American factories to adopt robotics for increased productivity and competitiveness.
Canada Set For Snap Election With Trade War Rattling Economy
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to call a national election amid heightened tensions from a trade war with the U.S., with his leadership under the Liberal Party facing a critical test against the Conservative Party led by Pierre Poilievre.
U.S. Trailer Net Orders For February Reach Nearly 20,900 Units
U.S. trailer net orders reached 20,874 units in February, marking a 3% year-over-year increase despite an 18% month-over-month decline, with concerns over upcoming tariffs and EPA regulations potentially disrupting market demand and fleet strategies.
FMC To Probe 7 Ocean Chokepoints To Improve Shipping Conditions
The Federal Maritime Commission is investigating whether global maritime chokepoints like the Suez Canal and Panama Canal are causing poor ocean shipping conditions due to foreign regulations or vessel practices, potentially barring vessels from responsible countries from U.S. ports.
Port Of Los Angeles Sees Strong Container Volumes In February
The Port of Los Angeles saw strong performance in February, handling 801,398 TEUs — a 2.5% year-over-year increase — but concerns remain over a potential 10% volume decline later in 2025 due to early imports and tariff uncertainty.
