Climate change is leading to increasingly frequent supply chain disruptions and economic losses. This is the prediction of SCM experts from the Bochum-based software company Setlog in light of the current restrictions in the Panama Canal. Although the situation in Central America hardly affects the German economy directly, the experts advise politicians and companies to prepare for future challenges—especially concerning the transport of raw materials and goods on waterways during low water levels.
Background: A prolonged drought in Central America has led to a shortage of water in the Panama Canal, reducing transit capacity and causing waiting times of up to three weeks. Setlog board member Ralf Duester warns that similar extreme weather events could also lead to significant disruptions in Germany, such as on the Rhine River. Companies should therefore increasingly focus on digitizing their supply chains and planning alternative transport routes. Politicians are called upon to implement proactive measures like improved water level forecasts and infrastructural adjustments to prevent future bottlenecks.