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USTR's Latest Section 301 Actions Matter for Your Supply Chain

• •Maersk's April 14, 2026, "Middle East Operational Update 21" reported a temporary U.S.-Iran ceasefire, potentially allowing limited commercial transit through the Strait of Hormuz, though full maritime certainty remains unassured. This occurs as rerouting and war-risk insurance have already driven global shipping costs up over 20% on key routes, with surcharges reaching $3,800 per container.[Maersk, Maadvisor]
• •The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) issued an urgent alert on April 10, 2026, detailing Iranian-affiliated cyber actors targeting programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in U.S. critical infrastructure and manufacturing supply chains. These advanced persistent threat (APT) groups exploit internet-facing operational technology, specifically mentioning Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley devices, advising removal of PLCs from direct internet exposure.[Logisticsviewpoints, Morganlewis]
• •The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) initiated Section 301 investigations on March 12, 2026, targeting major trading partners, with an April 15 deadline, reflecting a policy shift to bolster domestic manufacturing. This policy includes a significant 100% duty imposed on foreign pharmaceuticals in the healthcare sector, compelling businesses to re-evaluate global production and supplier networks.[Morganlewis, Freightright]