New US Tariffs Hit as China Push Back

The global trade environment has entered a volatile new phase, with far-reaching implications. As of today, the U.S. has imposed a headline 104% tariff on Chinese imports, leading Beijing to respond with a fresh wave of retaliation, raising its tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%, effective 12 April, and restricting critical mineral exports.

This is more than a bilateral spat, with the European Union expected to approve its first countermeasures, marking a coordinated global response to the U.S. strategy. While the UK has not yet introduced formal counter-tariffs, the implications for UK importers and exporters – particularly those with transatlantic or Asian exposure – are immediate and increasingly complex.

At PSP Worldwide Logistics, we’re closely tracking the real-world impacts of this unfolding trade war, especially the pressure it’s placing on shipping routes, cost structures, and market confidence.

Carriers Cut Back as Volumes Plunge
This environment puts US importers in a difficult position: ship now and risk overpaying if tariffs are reversed, or delay and risk facing even higher costs if further duties are imposed. Many are opting to pause shipments where possible, disrupting vessel utilisation, bookings, and spot market rates.

According to the latest data from eeSea, 49 blanked sailings have been announced on the Far East–North America trade for April, with 36 more planned for May. Container bookings from China into the U.S. have dropped by 67% in just one week, while outbound Chinese exports across all markets are down 40%. Ocean carriers are reacting quickly, cancelling services and adjusting capacity to avoid rate collapses. These cuts may soon affect UK and European services too, as vessels are redeployed or removed from rotation.

Navigating the Weeks Ahead
What’s striking is the speed and scale of change. Just last week, the U.S. implemented a universal 10% tariff on all imported goods. Now, with “reciprocal” tariffs spiking and key partners retaliating, the global trade environment has become more unpredictable than at any time in recent memory.

For UK businesses, that means planning for a wider range of outcomes. Even where direct exposure to the U.S. | China trade route is limited, the second-order impacts – on container availability, freight rates, and customs complexity – are likely to be felt across the board.

PSP Worldwide Logistics is here to help. Whether you’re navigating tariff exposure, exploring alternative sourcing or routing strategies, or reviewing how to keep shipments moving efficiently, our team is on hand with up-to-the-minute insight and personalised support.

To discuss your current position, review contingency options, or prepare for further trade policy shifts, EMAIL our managing director, Colin Redman today. We’ll help you adapt quickly and stay one step ahead.