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Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen’s high-stakes test amid tariff turmoil: ‘You can’t befreaking out’

Flexport CEO Ryan Petersen addresses turmoil caused by new U.S. tariffs on goods from China, which could reach 79%. As global trade shifts, Petersen emphasizes the need for calm and clarity amid changes impacting e-commerce and logistics. With potential port fees looming, he discusses the urgency of supporting customers and staying adaptable in a rapidly changing environment.

Key points

  • Ryan Petersen, CEO of Flexport, spoke to 2300 customers after Trump announced new tariffs on imports.
  • Tariffs can be as high as 79% on items from China affecting U.S. importers.
  • Direct-to-consumer shipping faces new customs obligations due to changes in de minimis rules.
  • Vietnamian goods also face a 46% tariff, negating previous perceptions of diversification away from China.
  • Petersen emphasizes providing steadiness to Flexport employees and customers during the chaos.
  • Pending U.S. trade proposals may lead to $1.5 million fees for ships built in China, increasing costs for importers.
  • Petersen maintains that this turmoil may not herald the end of free trade. He notes that countries like Vietnam and Israel are responding positively.

Why it matters

  • The tariffs announced by Trump highlight historical challenges in trade relations, especially with China.
  • This shift is part of an ongoing trend of increasing tariffs and protectionism seen in various countries as of 2025.
  • Flexport's response reflects a broader trend in global logistics adapting quickly to changes in trade policy.
  • The impact on e-commerce aligns with the significant transformation of retail due to globalization and geopolitical tensions observed recently.

Flexport's proactive approach under Ryan Petersen aims to navigate the challenges posed by aggressive tariff policies, emphasizing stability and adaptation in a shifting global trade landscape.