New findings from Achilles, a worldwide authority on supply chain risk and performance management, indicate a widening disconnect in maritime transport: while supply chain risk is climbing, visibility into supplier networks is not keeping up. The study shows that 75% of maritime firms have only partial or restricted insight into their supplier chains, and over half anticipate increased supply chain risk over the next 12 to 24 months.

Read also: Maritime AI Foundation: 5 Key Questions for Shipping Executives

Most companies report that disruptions have been relatively mild so far, often described as minor or occasional. Yet a small number have faced severe incidents with costs surpassing $10 million. This suggests a sector where risk exposure is on the rise, but the capacity to evaluate supplier risk and adjust the supplier base without heightening exposure remains inconsistent.

Disruptions on major shipping lanes—such as instability in the Red Sea and tensions near the Strait of Hormuz—have forced firms to reroute vessels, modify schedules, and sometimes quickly switch to different suppliers. In such scenarios, teams must rapidly determine who they are dealing with and whether alternative suppliers can be engaged without adding operational, compliance, or financial risks. The research indicates this is often challenging, with many firms expressing only moderate confidence in their oversight of suppliers and subcontractors, especially in higher-risk activities.

Sustainability is a priority, driven by market forces

Survey participants rate sustainability as a major focus, averaging 7.4 out of 10, and most have formal strategies in place. Unlike other industries, the main motivators are customer expectations and carbon reduction targets rather than regulatory pressure. This points to a market-driven shift where environmental performance is increasingly tied to competitiveness and client demand.

AI interest grows, but deployment is nascent

The study also reveals significant interest in artificial intelligence for procurement and supplier risk management. Over 75% of organizations are exploring or testing AI applications, mainly to boost efficiency and aid decision-making. However, adoption is still in early stages, with no firms reporting broad implementation. Current usage centers on improving existing workflows rather than overhauling them.

Overall, the findings depict a sector where external pressures are mounting, but the ability to react swiftly and confidently is still maturing. As supply chains grow more intricate and disruptions become more frequent, organizations will need to enhance their understanding of supplier risk and their speed in adapting the supplier base without creating new vulnerabilities.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform