Survey reveals impact of tariffs

The US industry association Airforwarders Association (AfA) has published the results of a recent survey among its members, indicating a significant impact on shipping volumes due to import tariffs in the United States. According to the survey, 83% of respondents reported that their customers placed fewer shipping orders because of these tariffs.

More than half of the survey participants reported that the tariffs necessitated adjustments in their customers‘ supply chains and shipping routes. Nearly half of the respondents also noted that operational costs and administrative burdens had increased. Additional challenges that exacerbated the effects of the tariffs included customs delays, congestion at airports, reduced flight schedules, and inconsistent security and documentation processes.

AfA Executive Director Brandon Fried (photo) commented on the survey results: „The past year has been marked by instability, with changing trade policies, new tariffs, and shifting security and compliance requirements, making it difficult for forwarders and their customers to plan with confidence.“ He emphasized the need for stable and predictable political frameworks to give businesses the assurance to invest in their capacities and make long-term decisions in the supply chain.

The AfA plans to use the survey results in its lobbying efforts in Washington D.C. as well as in discussions with industry representatives. TIACA Director General Glyn Hughes also commented on the survey results, noting that the current US trade policy is leading to a decline in products and supply chains. „Using tariffs as leverage against countries that do not align with current US positions has caused pain and uncertainty,“ Hughes stated.

These developments are set against the backdrop of the upcoming AirCargo Conference, hosted by the AfA, which will bring together more than 1,000 forwarders, airlines, airports, regulatory agencies, and logistics providers from the air freight sector. The event will take place from February 15 to 17 at Omni Champions Gate in Orlando.

The survey results indicate that tariffs not only incur direct costs but also increase complexity and uncertainty in international trade. AfA members reported an increase in workload and the need to invest in technologies to address the challenges. One member commented: „The tariffs have intensified the existing tensions in cross-border trade. The direct cost impact is significant, but the greater burden is the volatility and complexity.“

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