Impact of the Hormuz Strait closure on global logistics

The Hormuz Strait is one of the most critical maritime corridors in global trade. A significant portion of the world’s energy, raw materials, and trategic goods flows through this route.

In the current context, the reduction in maritime traffic across this area has raised concerns among international organizations due to its impact on global logistics. While initial attention has focused on energy supply, the implications extend further, particularly affecting agricultural supply chains. This situation adds a new layer of uncertainty for importers and exporters that rely on highly interconnected supply chains.

Fertilizers and agricultural supply at risk

One of the key concerns identified by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is the disruption in the transportation of fertilizers and agricultural raw materials. The Hormuz Strait plays a crucial role in the movement of these products, which are essential for planting cycles in many regions around the world. Disruptions in transit affect delivery times and compromise the timely availability of critical inputs.

The impact is not immediate, but it is cumulative: current logistical delays may translate into lower agricultural production in the coming months. This risk is particularly significant in regions with high dependency on imported fertilizers, where production stability is directly linked to consistent supply.

Pressure on maritime capacity and supply chains

Reduced maritime traffic in the strait has lowered the effective availability of shipping capacity on certain trade routes.This creates added pressure across the global supply chain: limited cargo space, increased competition among shippers, and potential schedule adjustments.
Such disruptions do not remain isolated to specific sectors—they tend to spread throughout the entire supply chain, impacting everything from raw materials to finished goods.

Potential impact on food prices

The most significant warnings issued by international organizations relate to food security. The FAO has indicated that a prolonged disruption in the flow of fertilizers and agricultural inputs could trigger a “systemic agri-food shock.” This would likely result in lower production levels and increased pressure on food prices. If current conditions persist, impacts could begin to materialize within a six- to twelve-month timeframe. This highlights the direct relationship between global logistics and the stability of food systems.

Logistics as a strategic function

The situation in the Hormuz Strait underscores the vulnerability of global supply chains to disruptions in key transit points. For companies engaged in international trade, adopting a more strategic approach to logistics is essential. This includes route diversification, continuous risk monitoring, and stronger operational flexibility. Logistics is no longer just an operational function—it is a core component of business resilience.

Conclusion

The disruption in the Hormuz Strait illustrates how a localized event can generate global consequences, affecting costs, timelines, and product availability. In this environment, anticipation and adaptability become critical to maintaining operational continuity.

A shift in international trade dynamics

Nearshoring has become one of the main trends in foreign trade in recent years. Companies, especially those with operations linked to the United States, are rethinking their supply chains in order to bring production and distribution closer to their end markets. In this context, Colombia has begun to position itself as a strategic destination. Various analyses agree that its geographic location, access to multiple trade agreements, and logistics connectivity make it a relevant player in this transformation.

Logistics impacts of nearshoring growth

Reduced transit times and greater predictability

One of the most relevant effects of nearshoring is the reduction in delivery times. By bringing production centers closer to the end market, dependence on long and complex routes is reduced, allowing for greater stability in transit times. This is especially relevant in scenarios where global supply chains have faced disruptions, as it enables companies to operate with greater control and predictability.

Increased demand for logistics services

The rise of nearshoring in Colombia is generating greater pressure on logistics services. From international transport to local distribution, companies require more agile, integrated, and scalable solutions. International lockers and other logistics intermediation solutions are playing an important role by facilitating access to markets and optimizing import and export processes.

Foreign trade trends toward 2026

The consulted analyses agree that nearshoring will continue gaining relevance in the coming years. Colombia is shaping up as a regional logistics hub, provided it strengthens its infrastructure and maintains competitive conditions for investment. Companies are also prioritizing more resilient supply chains, favoring relocation toward nearby and reliable countries.

Implications for exporters and importers

For Colombian companies, nearshoring represents both an opportunity and a challenge. On one hand, it opens the door to new business and markets. On the other, it demands greater operational efficiency and logistics adaptability. Companies that manage to optimize their processes, reduce transit times, and offer comprehensive solutions will have a clear competitive advantage in this new environment. The following section presents a speculative analysis based on observed trends. This content does not constitute confirmed facts and should not be interpreted as a definitive projection.

The growth of nearshoring could intensify competition for logistics capacity in Colombia, especially in ports and land transport. If demand exceeds installed capacity, bottlenecks may arise, affecting operational times and costs. Likewise, increased cargo flow could put pressure on logistics rates, particularly in storage and distribution services. This would force companies to seek strategic partners to maintain efficiency without increasing costs. In this scenario, anticipation, planning, and logistics execution capacity will be decisive factors to capitalize on nearshoring opportunities.

How to capitalize on nearshoring with a logistics partner

The current environment requires comprehensive logistics solutions. It is not only about moving cargo, but about efficiently managing the entire supply chain. Fenix Global Cargo positions itself as a strategic partner for companies looking to take advantage of nearshoring in Colombia, offering services adapted to new international trade dynamics, focused on efficiency, traceability, and cost optimization.

A digital incident that tests operations

The National Tax and Customs Directorate (DIAN) recently reported a cybersecurity incident that affected part of its systems. According to what was communicated by the entity and reported by different media outlets, the event was contained without compromising the tax, customs, or foreign exchange information of citizens. The institutional response included the activation of security protocols and technical measures aimed at protecting data integrity and maintaining operations.

Beyond the incident: what it means for logistics

Although the information was not compromised, an event of this type puts on the table the logistics sector’s dependence on institutional digital platforms. The stability of DIAN systems is essential for processes such as declarations, validations, or inspections to be carried out normally. Therefore, even when there is no direct impact, the mere existence of an incident can generate temporary operational adjustments, especially in response times or in the management of procedures. In this context, continuity depends not only on data being protected, but also on systems functioning in a stable and predictable manner.

A signal about operational risk management

This type of situation reinforces the importance of anticipating possible interruption scenarios, especially in logistics chains where each stage depends on digital validations. When a key entity faces a technological event, even if controlled, the need to have flexible processes and response capacity becomes evident. Modern logistics is not only measured in transit times, but also in its resilience to external factors.

Possible scenarios in logistics operations

Clarification: The following section corresponds to an analysis of possible scenarios based on the nature of the incident. It does not constitute confirmed information and should not be interpreted as facts, but as a general approach to possible logistical implications. Based on what happened, it is reasonable to consider that cybersecurity events in entities such as DIAN may lead to more cautious operational environments. This could translate into slightly slower processes while controls are reinforced or internal protocols are adjusted.

It is also possible that, at certain moments, verification is prioritized over speed, which directly impacts the dynamics of logistics operations without implying a structural disruption.

Conclusion

The incident reported by DIAN did not affect citizens’ information or essential data for foreign trade. However, it highlights the critical role that digital infrastructure plays in today’s logistics. Beyond the specific event, the message is clear: operational continuity increasingly depends on the ability to adapt to changing environments.

The commercial tension threatening bilateral trade

In recent weeks, there has been an escalation of tariff measures between Colombia and Ecuador that is significantly affecting trade between the two countries. Analysts and business associations on both sides of the border have expressed concern about sharp declines in imports and negative effects on production chains and jobs.
According to industry representatives, Ecuadorian imports from Colombia have fallen by nearly 69 % in value and the number of transactions has dropped by more than 60 %, affecting both importers and exporters across various industrial sectors.

Immediate consequences for companies and trade

Business associations from Colombia and Ecuador have jointly called for a suspension of tariff measures and for the presidents of both countries to sit down for direct dialogue, warning that more than 300,000 jobs could be at risk and that surtaxes favor informality and smuggling. Sectors such as medical supplies, automotive, food, and raw materials have seen increased product entry costs due to high taxes, which pressures companies and consumers alike.

Visual content generated by artificial intelligence, presented solely as illustrative reference.

Prospective analysis on logistics amid the trade war

Before continuing with speculative analysis, it is important to remember that what follows is not confirmed fact, but a consideration based on observed effects and the international dynamics of supply chains: A prolonged measure could lead importers and exporters to seek alternative trade routes, change suppliers, or restructure their logistics chains to reduce costs. These adjustments can result in longer transit times and changes in distribution agreements that impact market positioning and inventory flows.

Since early February 2026, Puerto Antioquia began its regular operation as a new maritime terminal in the Gulf of Urabá, marking a milestone for Colombian foreign trade and regional logistics competitiveness. This port, with modern and ambitious infrastructure, offers new alternatives for exporters and importers looking to reduce time, costs, and complexity in their logistics routes.

Real Cargo Diversification and Operating Companies

Beyond the traditional banana movement that characterizes the region, companies like Grupo Familia have already made exports, and companies like Corona and Italcol are evaluating or preparing operations from this terminal. Additionally, global shipping lines such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC have already signed contracts to operate regular services through this port.
This means that both agricultural products (avocado, coffee, lemon, pineapple, flowers) and bulk and general cargo are available today to be moved from Urabá with direct access to international trade.

What Does This Mean for Your Company?

The start of operations at Puerto Antioquia is not just an infrastructure milestone: it is a tangible opportunity for Colombian companies that:

• need to speed up their imports or exports,
• want to diversify their maritime routes, or
• seek to improve their global logistics competitiveness.

This new logistics corridor is active, operational, and supported by top-tier shipping lines.

The main components of international logistics

To understand how international logistics works, it is essential to know its key elements. Each one fulfills a specific function within the chain.

Conclusion

International logistics is much more than moving goods from one country to another. It is a complex system that connects markets, reduces distances, and makes global trade possible. Understanding its fundamentals is key to making better decisions, minimizing risks, and building sustainable operations over time.

Investing in a well-structured logistics operation is not a cost: it is a strategic decision that directly impacts the competitiveness and growth of any company.

If you are taking your first steps in the world of imports or exports, you have surely already come across acronyms such as TRM, FOB, and CIF. And yes, at first they may seem confusing, but understanding them is essential to know how much it really costs to move your merchandise and how to avoid surprises along the way.

What is the TRM?

The TRM (Representative Market Rate) is the official value of the dollar in Colombia. In other words, it tells you how many pesos you need to buy one dollar on a given day. This value changes every day according to supply and demand in the exchange market. That is why, if you do international business, you must check the TRM before closing a negotiation.

For example, if the TRM is at COP 4,200, a purchase of USD 10,000 would be equivalent to COP 42 million Colombian pesos. But if it rises to COP 4,400, the same deal would cost you COP 44 million. That difference can directly impact your profitability.
Fenix advice: before importing or paying an invoice in dollars, ask your Fenix Global Cargo advisor for an updated cost projection with the day’s TRM. This way you can plan your cash flow better and protect your profit margin. In this article we explain each one in a simple way, with real examples and practical advice.

CIF Value: the price up to your destination port

The CIF value (Cost, Insurance and Freight) includes the cost of the goods, international transportation, and insurance up to the destination port.
In this case, the seller assumes more responsibilities: they pay the freight and contract basic insurance for the cargo.
The buyer only assumes costs once the goods arrive at their port.

Example:
The same machinery shipment, under CIF conditions, could cost you USD 22,000. That amount already includes the freight and insurance.

Fenix tip: if you import under CIF, check what type of insurance your supplier includes. In many cases, the coverage is limited. With Fenix Global Cargo you can expand your insurance, monitor your cargo in real time, and have full customs support.

These three variables are connected to each other:

• The TRM directly influences the final value in Colombian pesos.
• The FOB defines how much you pay at origin.
• The CIF gives you the total cost up to the destination.

Fenix tip: combining these three elements allows you to understand the real cost of your import or export. At Fenix Global Cargo we help you analyze every detail, so you can make decisions with clarity and avoid overpaying.

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Conclusion: understanding your costs means gaining control

Mastering these concepts is not just theory: it is the key to negotiating better, protecting your investment, and optimizing your shipments.
Whether you work with FOB or CIF, and regardless of how the TRM fluctuates, having a reliable logistics team can make the difference between a successful shipment and a headache.

What Happened

On November 28, 2025, DIAN declared a contingency after reporting “partial unavailability” in its customs IT systems.The systems affected were Muisca Carga, Salida de Mercancías, and SYGA Importaciones — key platforms for import, export, and the logistical movement of goods.

According to official communications, the measure went into effect starting Friday, November 28, 2025.

What This Contingency Means for Customs Operations

• Electronic procedures were not operating normally: cargo registration, goods departure, and import processes became temporarily unavailable.
• To prevent the paralysis of operations, DIAN authorized — within the contingency framework — that certain procedures be carried out manually, as long as users demonstrated that they were unable to access the electronic system.
• This authorization is temporary and seeks to maintain the flow of foreign trade while systems are restored.

What Customs Users Should Do

If you are involved in imports, exports, or customs logistics — whether as an importer, exporter, freight forwarder, or customs user — keep the following in mind during the contingency:

• Verify whether the system is accessible.
  If you cannot complete the procedure electronically, you are allowed to perform it manually, as authorized by DIAN.
• Stay updated on DIAN’s official communications, as the entity indicated that services would be restored “as soon as possible.”
• Prepare the physical documents that normally accompany electronic procedures (forms, certificates, transport documents, etc.), so you can present them if you must operate manually.

What Happens Next

According to a new DIAN communication dated November 29, 2025, the contingency was lifted and electronic customs services were restored. This means that users can return to the normal use of systems such as Muisca Carga, Salida de Mercancías, SYGA Importaciones, and related platforms. However, DIAN recommends staying alert to future communications in case new contingencies arise.

Conclusion

The contingency declared by DIAN on November 28, 2025 caused a temporary interruption of its electronic customs platforms, requiring the use of manual procedures to avoid disruptions in foreign trade.
Although services have been restored, this episode highlights the importance of having internal contingency plans, maintaining physical documentation, and staying attentive to official communications.

Sources

• DIAN declara indisponibilidad de servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros — Comunicado de Prensa No. 111 (29/11/2025) DIAN
• “Contingencia en la Dian paraliza plataformas clave para el comercio exterior. Incertidumbre entre los empresarios” — Semana, 29/11/2025 Semana
• “DIAN suspende algunos servicios electrónicos aduaneros, ¿cuáles son?” — Caracol, 29/11/2025 Caracol Radio
• “Dian declara indisponibilidad de servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros” — La República, 29/11/2025 Diario La República
• “Dian declara contingencia y activa trámites manuales por fallas en servicios informáticos aduaneros” — Infobae, 29/11/2025 infobae
• “Se normaliza el funcionamiento de los servicios informáticos electrónicos aduaneros” — Comunicado de Prensa DIAN (Comunicado 112) 29/11/2025 DIAN

Urabá, that strategic stretch in northern Antioquia known for its bananas, plantains, and its horizon open to the sea, is undergoing a profound transformation. The plans to consolidate up to five port terminals in the region reflect an ambitious bet on its logistical and commercial potential. As of November 25, 2025, some of these projects have already made significant progress, while others remain in key planning stages. This article provides an updated overview of where these ports stand, what impact they may have, and what the main risks are.

Where do we stand with the ports of Urabá?

Puerto Antioquia: the first to activate and nearly complete

uerto Antioquia is by far the most advanced project in the region. Its construction is practically completed, with around 95% progress. The port is designed to handle both dry and refrigerated container cargo (crucial for agribusiness), as well as solid bulk.
With a deep dock (16.5-meter draft) and ambitious capacity, the goal is for this port to become a key departure point for exports and also for strategic imports. Authorities have confirmed that construction is well advanced and that major efforts have been made to connect the maritime terminal to the mainland through essential land infrastructure, including an approximately 4.3 km viaduct over mangrove areas and the León River.
Commercial operations at Puerto Antioquia are expected to begin imminently, with November 1, 2025 projected as the tentative start date, and the expectation of receiving the first large vessel in the second half of November for operational tests. Part of the local community has already been trained to work at the port, which promises to generate technical employment in Urabá.
Other projected ports: diversification and specialization

Beyond Puerto Antioquia, there are four other terminals projected for Urabá, each with a different role and in earlier development phases (advanced planning or expected to break ground in 2026):

• Puerto Pisisí: Focused on liquid and solid bulk, which could make it a key point for raw materials such as oils or chemical products.
• Puerto Cirilo: Focused on forestry products (such as wood chips) and grains, giving it a mixed export-import profile.
• Puerto Progreso (or Puerto de Urabá Progreso): Perhaps one of the most strategic in energy terms, as it is planned to handle liquefied natural gas (LNG) and biofuels, connecting Urabá with new energy dynamics.
• Darién International Port: Although less publicly developed, it forms part of the plan to consolidate Urabá as an international-scale logistics node.

Expected benefits for Urabá and beyond

Challenges and risks that cannot be overlooked

Conclusion

The plan for five ports in Urabá is a strategic bet to transform the subregion. Puerto Antioquia is already a reality on the verge of operating, and the other projected terminals could diversify the local economy, create jobs, and connect Urabá with global markets. Success will depend on carefully managing risks: securing demand, strengthening land infrastructure, and ensuring sustainable investments.

Referentes

Avance y Fecha de Operación de Puerto Antioquia:

• Fuente (Instagram – Valora Analitik): “Puerto Antioquia ya tiene fecha oficial para entrar en operación: el próximo 1 de noviembre de 2025 iniciará actividades…”
• Fuente (El Espectador): “Puerto Antioquia empezará a operar el 1 de noviembre. El puerto ya tiene un 95 % de avance en su construcción.”
• Fuente (YouTube – Telemedellín): Video publicado el 7 de noviembre de 2025 confirmando que el puerto está “casi al 100%” y a la espera de iniciar pruebas.

Detalles de Infraestructura y Capacidad (Puerto Antioquia):

• Fuente (YouTube – Valora Analitik): Detalles sobre el viaducto (4.5 km), la plataforma terrestre, calado de 16.5m, y capacidad inicial de 7 millones de toneladas.

Proyectos de Otros Puertos (Pisisí, Progreso):

• Fuente (Facebook – Delta Arquitectura Oficial): Confirma que Puerto Pisisí avanza en planificación y espera iniciar obras en 2026 para abrir en 2028.
• Fuente (Infobae): Menciona que Colombia tendrá un nuevo puerto en Urabá (refiriéndose a Puerto Progreso) clave para gas natural y combustibles.

Retos de Infraestructura Terrestre:

• Fuente (Diario ADN): Advierte sobre el reto crítico de las vías de acceso, señalando que la carretera de acceso aún no está completa a pocos meses de la apertura del puerto.

After months of decline, spot rates in container shipping took an unexpected turn in October. According to data from Xeneta, major routes from Asia to Europe and the United States saw significant increases: 38% on the U.S. West Coast (USWC), 23% on the East Coast (USEC), 18% to Northern Europe, and 9% to the Mediterranean.
This rebound caught cargo owners off guard as they prepare for 2026 contract tenders. But beyond the temporary relief, the market remains shaped by persistent overcapacity and geopolitical tensions that could define the year ahead.