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Thriving Through Trade Uncertainty: Solutions That Help Businesses Move Forward

May 22, 2025
Cargo ship docked at cargo yard.

In today’s global marketplace, uncertainty is the new normal. Geopolitical shifts, protectionist policies and evolving tariff landscapes have introduced new pressures for businesses that rely on cross-border trade.

With supply chains under strain and costs rising, companies are increasingly looking for strategic ways to protect their financial stability and position themselves for long-term success.

“Business leaders today are dealing with a lot of variables they can’t control,” says Andrew Perkins, senior vice president, Trade Credit and Political Risk at NFP, an Aon company. “But what they can control is how prepared they are. The right insurance solutions offer more than protection — they provide the confidence to move forward.”

Building Resilience with the Right Risk Tools

At NFP, we work closely with clients to create custom solutions that address the unique exposures brought on by trade disruption. This includes tools such as trade credit insurance, which can safeguard accounts receivable from nonpayment, and political risk insurance, which protects overseas investments from government actions or political violence. Both help businesses stay financially agile — an essential advantage when markets shift suddenly or suppliers become unstable.

Trade credit insurance can be a powerful tool for growth,” Perkins explains. “Not only does it protect cash flow, but it also allows companies to extend more competitive terms to customers and access better financing. That can make all the difference in a volatile environment.”

Supporting Growth While Managing Risk

When disruptions ripple through global supply chains, businesses may be forced to explore unfamiliar markets or change how they operate. For companies making these pivots, political risk insurance can offer a crucial safety net — especially in regions where the risks are harder to predict or mitigate.

Meanwhile, trade disruption insurance can help offset the costs associated with delayed shipments, cancelled contracts or other unforeseen events that impact operations. And commercial surety bonds continue to play a key role in freeing up liquidity by replacing tied-up bank guarantees with flexible bonding solutions.

“Every one of these tools is about giving businesses more control — not just to protect what they have, but to pursue opportunities with less fear,” says Perkins.

A Partner in Uncertain Times

The global trade environment is unlikely to get simpler anytime soon. But with the right planning and a partner that understands your business, uncertainty doesn’t have to mean instability.

At NFP, we bring deep expertise and a client-first approach to building risk strategies that do more than respond — they empower. Whether you're expanding into new markets, managing supplier shifts or navigating unfamiliar trade regulations, we’re here to help you stay competitive and confident in any environment.

Andrew Perkins 
Senior Vice President 
Trade Credit and Political Risk Insurance 
416.623.6488andrew.perkins@nfp.ca 

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Stay ahead of uncertainty. Protect your business with the right insurance solutions.
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