A recent survey by Maersk highlights the ongoing and escalating challenges facing European supply chains, with most companies adopting proactive resilience strategies amid geopolitical tensions, tariffs, and operational disruptions forecast to last at least another year or two.
A recent extensive survey conducted by Maersk among over 900 European companies reveals a sobering outlook for global supply chains. With geopolitical tensions, shifting trade regulations, and un...
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certain tariffs continuing to exert pressure, 80% of supply chain leaders anticipate these disruptions will endure for at least another one to two years. Nearly half of those surveyed voiced deep concern about the geopolitical environment, while four in five recognise these challenges as significantly impacting business growth.
This sentiment reflects the ongoing polycrisis besetting global commerce, a theme echoed by Maersk’s leadership. Aymeric Chandavoine, President Europe at A.P. Moller – Maersk, emphasised that European businesses are increasingly refusing to remain passive amid volatility. Instead, they are adopting proactive strategies to build more resilient and agile supply networks that can convert uncertainty into growth opportunities.
To counter the persistent disruptions, a majority of companies are diversifying their sourcing strategies, with 75% either already sourcing from multiple geographies or planning to expand their supply base, an increase from 53% the previous year. Strengthening relationships with logistics providers and key suppliers has also become a priority, with 80% of respondents actively deepening these partnerships. Similarly, 60% of businesses are investing in enhancing supply chain visibility and agility, while 75% are adapting by exploring alternative trade routes to mitigate risks.
These findings align with other recent data spotlighting the significant operational impact of supply chain disruptions. A survey of over 2,000 European Maersk customers found that 76% had encountered supply chain interruptions in the previous year, with 20% facing more than 20 incidents. Notably, more than half of these companies reported cost overruns due to these disturbances.
Tariffs stand out as a particularly disruptive force. The sudden imposition of U.S. tariffs in April caught many supply chain managers off guard, adding complexity and unpredictability. Lars Karlsson, Maersk’s Global Head of Trade & Customs Consulting, highlighted the importance of proactive management and digital tools such as Maersk’s Trade and Tariff Studio platform. Businesses that swiftly consolidated their customs data and integrated real-time tariff updates were better positioned to weather tariff shocks than those who adopted a passive approach.
Looking ahead, the top challenges cited by European companies include fluctuations in import and export costs (46%), increased trade tariffs (43%), and uncertainty in global trade policies (40%). This aligns with recent tariff developments worldwide, such as the U.S. imposing a 10% import tariff on goods from China and additional tariffs affecting imports from Canada, Mexico, and India, as reported in Maersk’s 2025 market updates. Such measures contribute to heightened costs and complexity for global supply chains.
Operational bottlenecks also persist, with Maersk forecasting ongoing port congestion and equipment shortages through the end of the year, particularly in key sourcing locations like China and Vietnam. The company advises clients to plan carefully ahead of peak seasons and is adjusting logistics services to improve schedule reliability.
Despite these headwinds, Maersk continues to solidify its leadership position in the third-party logistics sector. It has been recognised as a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for the fourth consecutive year, reflecting its robust product strategy and comprehensive offerings spanning ocean, inland, air transport, warehousing, and customs management.
In summary, European supply chains face continued turbulence from geopolitical dynamics, tariffs, and operational constraints well into the near future. However, companies are increasingly embracing diversification, digital solutions, and collaborative partnerships to enhance resilience. As Maersk’s executives underscore, this is a time for decisive action and strategic adaptation rather than resignation, with many businesses transforming challenges into a foundation for sustainable growth.
Source: Noah Wire Services
