The polycrisis-driven disruptions in global supply chains show no signs of abating and is unlikely to for the foreseeable future, according to a survey by shipping firm Maersk among its European customer base, with cargo owners expecting the current volatile environment to persist for at least another 12 to 24 months.

The survey, which gathered insights from over 900 companies across Europe, highlights the continued strain on supply chains amid geopolitical tensions, shifting trade policies, and tariff uncertainties.

More than 78% of the supply chain professionals surveyed said they anticipate that geopolitical dynamics, trade tariffs, and international trade regulations will impact their operations over the next one to two years. Nearly half (48%) expressed deep concern about the geopolitical climate, and four out of five recognised supply chain challenges as a factor impacting their business growth.

The survey suggests that, to counter these challenges, businesses are actively diversifying their sourcing strategies. Three out of four respondents indicated they are either already sourcing from multiple geographies or plan to do so – a notable increase from Maersk’s 2024 survey, where only 53% were considering new sourcing locations. Four out of five businesses are strengthening the relationship with their logistics provider and key suppliers, while three quarters of business said they are adapting to alternative trade routes.

Aymeric Chandavoine, president Europe at A.P. Moller, Maersk, said: “European businesses certainly haven’t had it all their own way over the past five years, and the ever-changing global environment facing them is definitely here to stay for the near future.

“Ultimately, though, it’s about turning the prevailing uncertainty into opportunities. One shared attitude among our customers has become abundantly clear: now is not the time to lament the cards we’ve been dealt – now is the time to take action and grow. More and more European businesses are refusing to sit back and wait for volatility to ease. Instead, they are looking to build smarter, more resilient networks that support their ambitions for growth.”

The volatile activity in tariffs – particularly when US tariffs hit virtually overnight across many different countries – has forced many businesses to find ways of maximising their adaptability. Lars Karlsson, Maersk’s global head of trade & customs consulting, said: “You need to be proactive and become more agile in a geopolitical environment like today. To achieve this, you need full control of your global customs data, have it digitally in one central platform where you can blend it with the data of sudden tariff changes as they happen.”

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