Global Logistics & Tariff Update

Tariff Update – As we reported yesterday, the EU has delayed retaliatory tariffs on U.S. bourbon, whiskey, and other products until April 13, prompting the U.S. to delay its own tariffs on EU wine and alcohol until April 14. While this de-escalation is a positive step, ongoing uncertainty continues to harm U.S. businesses. The U.S. is expected to respond strongly if the EU retaliates against steel and aluminum tariffs, potentially doubling the tariff impact. However, there is concern that tariffs on wine hurt U.S. businesses more than they influence EU policy. The delayed action of any tariffs gives importers some room to step back, assess the situation and plan next steps. Many are deciding to halt, delay or pause shipments until there is more concrete information. Regardless, it is the entire industry’s hope that the focus of potential tariffs pivots toward EU-benefiting industries rather than those that harm American interests. We are continuing to work with industry association leaders to push back on these tariff implementations, and we will continue to do so as the situation unfolds.

North Europe Issues - Rotterdam continues to be a persisting issue. Some carriers have advised that there are no berth windows for most services and they’re taking what they can get. If issues persist, carriers may drop Rotterdam as a POL for the time being. While the backlog continues, we recommend finding alternative ports to route your cargo through, as it may be best to avoid using Rotterdam as much as possible.

South America - Congestion continues in Chilean ports with ocean carriers rolling cargo due to a variety of problems constricting space.   Please allow for additional time for exports from this region.

DISCUS – We will be exhibiting and attending at the DISCUS Annual Conference next week in Washington DC and spending time on Capitol Hill promoting free and fair trade with members of Congress. Come visit us at Booth 7!