US proposes sanctions on Spanish maritime transport

International logistics, which sustains the exchange of cosmetic assets, active ingredients, and personal care products between Spain and the United States, could face a new setback in tariff policy. The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has proposed a package of measures that includes fees of up to $200,000 per trip for Spanish-flagged vessels docking in U.S. ports, in addition to potential trade restrictions on the import of certain goods from Spain.The FMC's regulatory proposal arises from an investigation initiated in late 2024 into alleged restrictive practices in Spanish ports towards U.S.-flagged vessels. Although the procedure is still in the allegations and public consultation phase, alarms have begun to sound in the manufacturing and export industry due to the logistical implications that a surcharge of this caliber could entail.In recent years, the United States has consolidated its position as one of the main non-EU destinations for Spanish cosmetics and perfumery, a sector known for its high export volumes in fine perfumery, dermo-cosmetics, and skincare solutions. Although the vast majority of international maritime cargo operates under shipping companies of various global flags, the application of tariffs and operational hurdles to maritime transport between both blocs generates two direct risks for the cosmetic value chain: Increased freight costs and key ingredients: Spain is a powerful hub for importing American raw materials and essential oils, as well as a global benchmark in the export of finished products formulated under the Made in Spain seal. An increase in vessel operations or port restrictions will inevitably translate into tensions on the landed cost (final cost at destination) of formulations and inputs. Bottlenecks and delivery times: Logistical uncertainty could alter the launch and replenishment forecasts of Spanish brands in the dynamic U.S. market, requiring purchasing and supply chain departments to reconfigure their routes and distribution contracts. For the moment, the FMC's proposal is not a definitive sanction. The US agency has opened a period of public consultation for affected industries and commercial actors to express in writing their assessments of the real economic impact of these restrictions. Likewise, the Government of Spain will present the appropriate allegations to stop the measure. Sectoral associations and ingredient firms will maintain close vigilance over the evolution of the file, evaluating whether the cosmetic sector should activate contingency plans to mitigate the impact on its exports to North America.

US proposes sanctions on Spanish maritime transport

Donald Trump once again puts the Spanish cosmetic sector on alert due to the restriction of exports to the North American country