Global shipping risk is becoming structural rather than temporary. A coalition of 18 major shipping nations, including the UK, has warned about geopolitical conflict and trade restrictions. They say these factors are causing a structural change in international trade. Maersk reports that some services are cautiously returning to the Suez Canal, but stresses that the situation remains unpredictable. Severe Asian typhoons have also caused congestion and delays.
The contractual implications include force majeure claims, price adjustment, delivery dates, alternative sourcing, logistics responsibility, and change-in-law/trade restrictions deserve renewed attention when drafting supply agreements.