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The return of protectionism and its effects on the international supply chain

With the recent change of government in the United States, some protectionist policies have resurfaced, which could change the landscape of international trade relations. With the reactivation of tariffs and trade barriers, the US seeks to protect its domestic industry, but these decisions have global repercussions that could affect both supply chains and key trade routes around the world.

Impact on the global supply chain

One of the most immediate potential consequences of protectionism would be higher operating costs for businesses that rely on imports. New tariffs could make foreign products more expensive, decreasing the competitiveness of firms and possibly increasing the prices of goods for consumers.

For international companies operating global supply chains, it would imply the need to reconfigure their sourcing and distribution strategies. This could include sourcing new suppliers or relocating factories, which would add complexity to logistics management. In addition, these changes could extend lead times and increase uncertainty in production forecasts.

In the case of Smart Logistics, a forwarding company that operates internationally, its extensive experience in the logistics sector and its ability to adapt to changes in trade policies will enable it to minimise the impact of the new tariffs. Moreover, as part of Alonso Group, a leading international holding company, it has solid operational and strategic backing.

The Panama Canal: a new conflict on the horizon?

One of the main arteries of international maritime trade, the Panama Canal, could also play a role in new US policies. The new presidency has expressed its intention to ‘take it back’, which could alter the flow of trade and generate international tensions.

High tariffs and potential disputes over control of the canal could affect the volume of trade, increasing costs and disrupting global supply chains. A situation that would force logistics players to adapt their routes and strategies. China and the EU, in particular, would be pushed to explore alternative routes and reconfigure their supply chains to remain competitive.

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Air freight: essential for the Christmas campaign

The Christmas season represents a significant challenge for the logistics sector, with a considerable increase in the demand for shipments and the need for fast and efficient deliveries. In this context, airfreight is becoming an essential tool to ensure that products reach their destinations on time, especially in a globalised market with long distances and increasingly demanding consumer expectations.

Increased demand

During this Christmas campaign, logistics and transport companies are handling around 115 million shipments, from the beginning of Black Friday until the end of Christmas, which represents an increase of 7.1% over the previous year, according to the latest data from the sector. This increase is mainly due to the boom in e-commerce and seasonal promotions.

Air freight, one of the key services of Smart Logistics, an IATA-certified integrated logistics operator, stands out for its ability to connect markets in record time, which is crucial for handling urgent goods such as electronic devices, toys or luxury goods. Its speed and reliability make it an indispensable ally during this period of high demand.

Advantages of air transport in Christmas logistics

The speed of airfreight is especially valuable for fast-moving or seasonal products, such as Christmas gifts, which require timely delivery to meet consumer expectations. It is also ideal for shipping high-value goods, which require careful handling and short delivery times.

Airfreight also allows companies to maintain optimal inventory levels and avoid excesses or shortages that may affect product availability during peak season. This mode facilitates an agile response to market fluctuations and adapts quickly to changes in demand and customer satisfaction.

Main challenges and issues

Despite its advantages, air freight faces challenges during the Christmas season, such as route saturation and the need for efficient coordination between the different actors in the supply chain. Strategic planning and proactive management is essential to mitigate potential delays and ensure the integrity of goods.

That’s why Smart Logistics guarantees efficient air shipments during the Christmas season. With expertise and advanced technology, the company optimises air transport processes and coordinates with airlines and customs to minimise delays and ensure timely and safe deliveries.

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Challenges in the maritime sector: geopolitical tensions, overcapacity and energy transition

The maritime industry is facing a critical stage marked by different challenges that significantly threaten global market dynamics. From geopolitical tensions to energy transition, maritime trade is at the epicentre of profound changes, which we will discuss below.

In this scenario, logistics companies seek to adapt and lead innovative strategies to maintain stability in the midst of uncertainty. Smart Logistics, an integrated logistics operator, responds every day to these circumstances through solutions that optimise processes, improve operational flexibility and allow rapid adaptation to market changes.

The impact of geopolitical tensions

Conflicts in key regions, such as the Red Sea, have increased risks on vital global trade routes. In particular, the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, which connects the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean, is affected by conflicts in Yemen and Sudan, complicating shipping operations. This situation has led to increased operational costs due to high insurance premiums and additional security measures.

On the other hand, the trade war between the United States and China continues to disrupt trade flows. Tariff tensions and protectionist policies have reshaped global supply chains. This is forcing shipping companies to adapt quickly to changes in demand and new routes.

Oversupply

In addition to geopolitical conflicts, the industry faces overcapacity in its fleets. During the pandemic, shipping lines increased their vessels in anticipation of a boom in global trade, but the economic slowdown has left many vessels idle. This overcapacity has reduced freight rates, and has affected the profit margins of companies in the sector. Smaller and medium-sized companies are the most vulnerable to this scenario.

Sustainability and energy transition

Finally, the transition to clean energy, such as green methanol, hydrogen and electrification, is becoming an imperative in the maritime sector. However, these developments require massive investments in technology and infrastructure, costs that many companies are not prepared to meet immediately.

Companies such as Smart Logistics are looking for ways to implement sustainable solutions, investing in more efficient fleets and developing strategies to optimise routes, reduce emissions and take advantage of alternative fuels. These actions are aimed at maintaining competitiveness and complying with emerging International Maritime Organisation (IMO) environmental regulations. Sustainability, once again, at the centre of decision-making.

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Smart Logistics markets its services in a new edition of Fruit Attraction

The integrated logistics operator Smart Logistics participated in the 16th edition of Fruit Attraction, held recently at IFEMA Madrid. This event has established itself as one of the most important in the fruit and vegetable sector, with the presence of more than 100,000 professionals from 145 countries and more than 2,000 exhibiting companies. For a few days, Madrid has become the epicentre of fresh produce marketing, a place where innovation and quality are building the future of this sector.

Smart Logistics‘ participation in this event has opened up new business opportunities for the company. It has also allowed the company to discover products, technological innovations and new trends that will define the roadmap for the fruit and vegetable sector and the transport of perishables.

The internationalisation of the fruit and vegetable sector

Fruit Attraction 2024 highlighted the growing importance of the international fruit and vegetable trade. Global participation was one of the highlights, with the inclusion of countries such as China and Saudi Arabia. More than 1,000 buyers and industry leaders explored the diverse opportunities offered by this massive event.

Over three days, participants made business contacts and attended forums and congresses focusing on the latest industry topics. Globalisation has driven the demand for logistics solutions that guarantee the freshness and quality of perishable goods throughout the supply chain. In this context, Smart Logistics has asserted itself as a key partner for companies seeking to adapt to global requirements, in order to optimise routes and offer efficient and sustainable solutions.

Excellence in the transport of perishable goods

Smart Logistics, a company that forms part of the logistics division of Alonso Group, stands out for its commitment to the transport of perishable goods, an essential service for the fruit and vegetable industry. The company implements advanced technologies that make it possible to control the temperature and traceability of the products during their journey.

An example of their innovative approach is the use of cold treatment, a process that exposes certain products to specific temperatures for a specific period of time to eliminate pests and diseases without the use of chemicals. This technique not only guarantees the freshness and quality of the products, but also complies with international phytosanitary regulations and facilitates their marketing in global markets.

Smart Logistics’ dedication generates exceptional results in perishable logistics, strengthening customer confidence and contributing to the success of the supply chain.

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Smart Logistics: commitment to excellence and the environment

The integrated logistics operator, Smart Logistics, has recently renewed its Quality Management System (ISO 9001:2015) and Environmental Management System (ISO 14001:2015) certifications.

The ISO 9001 standard certifies that the company maintains high standards in its quality management processes, which guarantees commitment in its operations and customer satisfaction. On the other hand, the ISO 14001 certificate endorses the company’s commitment to sustainability and ensures that its logistics operations minimise environmental impact and promote environmentally responsible practices.

Pursuit of continuous improvement

This renewal not only strengthens Smart Logistics’ position in the industry, but also assures its customers and partners that the company continues to maintain quality and excellence in its land, sea and air operations. It also allows the company to differentiate itself in a highly competitive international market, where customers are looking for partners they can trust.

With a solid working system and a highly qualified team, Smart Logistics focuses on innovation and proactivity. An approach that allows the logistics operator to adapt to current needs, such as the use of artificial intelligence in the supply chain, and to anticipate future challenges in the global market.

Specialised services

Alongside its high standards of quality and sustainability, Smart Logistics offers a range of specialised services that have established it in the logistics industry. These solutions include land, sea and air transport, warehousing or customs management. Through a global network, the company is able to offer customised logistics solutions, enabling its customers to optimise costs and time in their operations.

Smart Logistics also specialises in the management of complex logistics projects, such as the transport of heavy and oversized cargo (project cargo), particularly in sectors such as clean energy and engineering. Another sign of its ability to efficiently handle demanding projects and always maintain service quality and customer satisfaction.

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