

Ep 133: Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen Breaks Down the Global Impact of Trump’s New Tariffs
101 snips Mar 13, 2025
Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport, shares his expertise on the impact of tariffs on global shipping and business operations. He explores how rising tariffs create uncertainty, especially for e-commerce, and discusses the challenges of navigating new regulations. Additionally, Ryan delves into the exciting potential of AI in logistics and port automation. Meanwhile, Zach Weinberg joins the conversation, adding insights on the complexities of trade policy and the surprising connections between conspiracy theories and the shipping industry.
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Tariffs and Manufacturing
- Tariffs aim to revitalize American manufacturing by making imports expensive.
- This creates planning challenges for businesses due to uncertainty and fluctuating duties.
De Minimis Disruption
- Many businesses exploited the de minimis exemption, importing goods via Mexico for duty-free e-commerce fulfillment.
- Mexico unexpectedly banned these imports, disrupting supply chains and forcing companies to adapt quickly.
Trade Advisory Services
- Flexport's trade advisory team helps businesses navigate complex customs regulations and valuation rules.
- The demand for these services has increased significantly due to changing tariff landscapes.