Reciprocal Tariff Full Enforcement - Tariffs will be fully enforced on all goods arriving to the US on or after May 27th, 2025, regardless of when they were shipped or loaded onto a vessel. The implementation will be based on arrival date into the US with the loading date no longer being relevant. For example, if you have a container that was loaded onto a vessel prior to April 5th but arrives to the US on or after May 27th then the reciprocal tariff rate will apply.
Antwerp Strike Recap – As we reported earlier this week, a large-scale national strike began at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges on Monday, May 19th, and continued through Wednesday, May 21st. This industrial action, organized by Belgian labor unions in protest of recent government austerity measures, caused significant disruptions to port operations. At the Port of Antwerp, PSA Antwerp suspended export cargo deliveries via truck during the strike period. Only import pick-ups and empty container handling were processed, with gate checks implemented to ensure compliance. Port congestion and operational delays are expected to extend beyond the end of the strike, with full normalization potentially taking several days. To help alleviate the backlog, both terminals are scheduled to open for all truck visits during the first shift on Saturday, May 24th. WSSA is closely monitoring the situation, and we will provide timely updates as new information became available.
South Africa Severe Weather – A severe weather warning is affecting Cape Town this week. The forecast indicates isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers across the central and western regions of South Africa, with widespread rainfall expected in the southwest. Snow is possible over mountain peaks, and disruptive rainfall, damaging winds, and rough sea conditions are anticipated. The weather may cause disruptions to port operations at Cape Town Port, so please plan accordingly if you have cargo departing the region.
Chile/Argentina Winter Weather – After a brief closure of the “Los Libertadores” pass connecting Chile and Argentina last weekend, the pass is now open and accessible. Backlog is not severe, but there may be some delays due to the multi-day closure. If you have questions on specific shipments, please be sure to contact your freight forwarder.
NW Seaport Alliance (Seattle/Tacoma): WSSA will be hosting a port tour and logistics briefing on June 16th in Seattle/Tacoma. Space is limited, but ff you are interested in joining, please contact us.