Alternative trade routes and an AI tech boom are helping the region cushion the blow of a threatened maritime tariff.

By Barbara Kollmeyer and Mike Murphy

Oil prices surge as Trump announces a 20% charge on Hormuz shipments. WTI reaching $110 in July 2026 at 2.6% YES.

US President Donald Trump says he wants to charge vessels 20% tax to cross strait

Iran and the U.S. have announced rival blockades of the Strait of Hormuz. This action cripples an already fragile ceasefire deal between the two nations. Global oil reserves have…