Jaguar Freight | The Weekly Roar – Carriers absorbing port surcharges, the challenges of reshoring, more insights on the use of AI in the industry, European struggles, and the new Federal Maritime Commission Act of 2025

Maersk, the world’s second-largest container line, announced that it will not impose a surcharge on shippers when new U.S. port fees on China-built and operated vessels take effect on October 14. Hapag-Lloyd, CMA CGM, and Evergreen have also stated they’re forgoing surcharges, which may set a trend for other carriers. In the short term, it appears that port fees may not be passed on to importers. Meanwhile, Seaspan plans to relocate from Hong Kong to Singapore and reflag 100 vessels amid ongoing industry adjustments.

If you read the headlines, reshoring manufacturing to the U.S. is gaining momentum as companies respond to tariffs and other supply chain challenges, but doing so is not a quick or simple solution. The process requires significant investments in many ways, including automation, skilled labor, and site selection. Community and government support, as well as access to infrastructure, are also necessary, making reshoring a multi-year and costly undertaking. Signs are that, for now, most manufacturers plan to maintain a globally diversified supply base to balance risk and maintain flexibility.

A new survey found that 96% of shippers and logistics providers are already using generative AI, mainly for data entry, route/load optimization, and forecasting. However, even though other technologies, like a TMS, are seen as a strategic advantage, only 17% of those surveyed report being fully automated, with many still relying on manual processes. Most respondents expect to increase their technology investments, prioritizing performance management and emphasizing fraud prevention.

Europe’s largest container ports, including Rotterdam and Hamburg, have ranked among the world’s least efficient in the latest Container Port Performance Index, highlighting an increasing lack of competitiveness. While some smaller and transshipment hubs, such as Algeciras and Gdańsk, saw strong performance or year-on-year gains, Europe’s mega-ports continue to struggle with congestion and operational challenges. The findings suggest some resilience, but overall, there is little progress. Automation and digitization investments are only providing benefits at select ports, while structural issues continue to persist at Europe’s main gateways.

Here’s much-needed proof that not everything trade-related has to be overly contentious within the U.S. government. The bi-partisan House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee has approved the Federal Maritime Commission Act of 2025, which reauthorizes the FMC and expands its regulatory powers. Provisions of the Act include new processes for investigating shipping exchanges, a broadened definition of “controlled carrier” to include state-controlled enterprises in non-market economies like China, and updates to the Shipping Act. The goal of the legislation, in part, is to reduce redundant reporting, expand advisory committees, and strengthen the FMC’s independence. There’s also a focus on addressing concerns about Chinese shipping practices.

For the rest of the week’s top shipping news, check out the article highlights here.

Compliments of Jaguar Freight – a member of the EACCNY