The new escalation in the trade war between the United States and China is once again shaking up the landscape of international trade. On April 2, the new tariff measures imposed by the United States came into effect; however, on April 9, President Donald Trump announced a 90-day truce, reducing those rates from 20% to 10%. Nevertheless, other countries, such as China, could see their tariffs increase by up to 125%.
But how does this affect Spain, its exports, and its logistics sector?
When did commercial tensions begin?
The trade war between the United States and China began in the late 2010s. In that period, the U.S. accused China of unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft and forced technology transfer.
In 2018, tensions escalated when the U.S. imposed tariffs on Chinese products, triggering a series of reciprocal tariff measures.
During 2019 and 2020, both countries attempted to reach trade agreements. In the first phase of the agreement, signed in January 2020, China pledged to purchase U.S. agricultural products and to improve intellectual property protection. However, key issues—such as technological competition and Chinese state subsidies—remained unresolved.
Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, the situation became even more complex, further exacerbating tensions between the two nations.
In 2025, new tariffs and restrictions on Chinese tech companies marked a fresh escalation in the conflict.
The trade war has had negative repercussions on global trade, disrupting global supply chains and driving reconfiguration toward new markets such as Vietnam and Mexico. It has also intensified geopolitical competition, particularly in the South China Sea and around Taiwan.
The future of the trade war remains uncertain, but technological restrictions are expected to persist, and global companies are likely to adapt their strategies to minimize risks in an increasingly uncertain trade environment.
What impact do these policies have on our exports?
Main Industries Affected
Tariffs imposed by the United States could reduce Spanish exports by 14.3%, especially affecting key sectors.
- Steel and Aluminium: Decrease of 10.4% in exports.
- Chemicals and pharmaceuticals: Estimated fall of 13.1%.
- Machinery and Electrical Equipment: 22.1% reduction in exports.
Economic Impact
Even though exports to the US represent only 5% of the total, these tariffs could affect Spain’s GDP, reducing it by 0.21%.
European Context
Approximately 67% of EU exports will be affected by the US tariffs.
Actions taken
The Spanish government has activated a 7.22 billion euro plan to support companies and mitigate the impact, while exploring new logistics routes and markets to diversify exports.
To sum up, the US tariffs have caused significant challenges for Spanish exports, especially in key sectors, with a moderate impact on the country’s economy.
What consequences does it bring to the Spanish logistics sector?
The trade war between the USA and China is reconfiguring global trade routes, which directly affects Spanish ports. The main effects are highlighted below:
Amid the reduction of direct trade between the U.S. and China, Spanish ports such as Algeciras, Valencia, and Barcelona are benefiting as logistical hubs. Spain could become a bridge between Asia, Latin America, and the U.S., facilitating goods that bypass direct tariffs.
Spanish exports to the US could decrease due to tariffs, but traffic with alternative markets such as Latin America and Africa would increase.
Spanish ports are key in transshipment trade, especially between Asia and the Americas. The trade war is prompting more operators to seek more efficient routes, taking advantage of the strategic location of Spanish ports.
Ports will need to adapt to demand peaks, implement traceability technology, and optimize customs management to avoid congestion. Nearby logistics zones are also needed to accelerate the flow of goods.
The reconfiguration of trade routes opens the door to new infrastructure investments and the creation of new maritime routes that position Spain as a key hub in Europe.
Conclusions
Spain holds a privileged position. Compared to Northern European ports, Spain offers advantages such as proximity to Africa and Latin America, a favorable climate, and better infrastructure, making it more stable than emerging Asian and African ports.
Although Spain is not a main player in the dispute between the U.S. and China, its ports are impacted by the global reorganization of goods transportation. Addressing these logistical challenges effectively can represent a major opportunity to consolidate its role as a key platform in international transport.
In an increasingly complex global market, where rules change rapidly and margins for error shrink, choosing the right logistics partner is not just a strategic decision—it’s a competitive advantage.
At Envos Logistics, we understand today’s challenges and know how to turn them into opportunities. Our team of experts in international trade, customs, and transportation is ready to help you navigate uncertainty and ensure your supply chain runs smoothly, efficiently, and without surprises.
Looking for logistics that adapt to your needs and support you every step of the way?
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