Welcome to the latest edition of The Risk Savvy Report, your comprehensive source for insights on global supply chain trends. In this issue, we explore significant developments from February 2022 to March 14, 2025, across various sectors, including trade policies, labor movements, environmental concerns, legal challenges, and supply chain disruptions.
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Global Trade & Tariff Implications
Trump Initiates New Trade War: A Timeline of Escalation
In early 2025, President Donald Trump launched a series of aggressive trade measures, imposing sweeping tariffs on key trade partners, including the European Union, Canada, Mexico, and China. These actions have sparked significant economic and political tensions worldwide. Read more
European Union’s Retaliation Against U.S. Tariffs
In response to the U.S. tariffs, the European Union announced plans for countermeasures to protect its economic interests, signaling a potential escalation in trade disputes. Read more
Impact on Domestic Industries and Workforce
Economists have warned that the proposed tariffs could lead to job losses and increased consumer prices in sectors like automotive and housing. The Steelworkers Union is actively opposing these measures, citing concerns over employment and industry stability. Read more
Alcoa CEO Highlights Risks of Aluminum Tariffs
The CEO of Alcoa has expressed concerns that aluminum tariffs could result in job losses within the industry, highlighting the potential negative impact on domestic manufacturing. Read more
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Bankruptcy & Financial Risk
Weekly Bankruptcy Alert: March 17, 2025
The latest bankruptcy reports indicate a rise in filings across various sectors, reflecting ongoing economic challenges and the impact of recent trade policies.
Forever 21 Files for Bankruptcy
Retail giant Forever 21 has filed for bankruptcy, announcing plans to close multiple U.S. stores. This development underscores the financial pressures facing the retail industry amid changing consumer behaviors and economic uncertainties.
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Labor Strikes & Workforce
Mass Strikes Disrupt German Airports
Operations at major German airports have been severely disrupted due to mass strikes, affecting thousands of passengers and highlighting ongoing labor disputes within the aviation sector.
Tesla’s Labor Policies Under Scrutiny in Germany
Tesla has faced criticism in Germany for threatening to withhold pay from sick employees, sparking debates over workers’ rights and corporate responsibilities.
Federal Workforce Reductions Impact Environmental Studies
The Trump administration’s reduction of federal workers has raised concerns about the potential hindrance to environmental and scientific studies, particularly in South Carolina.
Hyundai’s Safety Lapses Lead to Worker Fatalities
An investigation by the Korean government revealed that Hyundai Motor failed to implement adequate safety measures at a plant where three workers died, raising serious concerns about the company’s commitment to employee welfare.
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Legal Challenges
Bank of America Faces Class Action Lawsuit
Bank of America is confronting a class-action lawsuit over allegations of failing to disclose bill pay eligibility requirements, bringing attention to transparency practices in the banking sector.
Fairlife Accused of Animal Cruelty
A class-action lawsuit has been filed against Fairlife, alleging new instances of animal cruelty, which could significantly impact the company’s reputation and consumer trust.
Supply Chain & Transportation
Proposed U.S. Port Fees on Chinese-Built Ships
The U.S. has proposed new port fees on Chinese-built cargo ships, a move that could increase shipping costs and affect global supply chains.
Maritime Security Threats in the Singapore Strait
A surge in criminal activities continues to plague the Singapore Strait, posing increasing threats to maritime security and international shipping routes in 2025.
Suez Canal Blockage by Giant Container Ship
A massive container ship became lodged in the Suez Canal, disrupting one of the world’s busiest trade routes and causing significant delays in global shipping.
Steel Buyers Enter Tariff Era as Ships Rerouted, Trucks Halted
Immediate effects of the newly imposed 25% U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, highlighting how companies are rerouting shipments and halting truck deliveries to mitigate increased costs
Stay informed with The Risk Savvy Report for the latest updates on global supply chain risks and trends.
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We hope these insights have enhanced your understanding of supplier risk in the global supply chain, making you evermore risk savvy.
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