The head of insurance group Markel’s Singapore operations has said marine and cargo clients are expecting ever more from insurers as the threats they face intensify.

Wanshi Lin, told Emerging Risk clients concerns were on the increase.

“As risk profiles grow more complex and volatile, client expectations of insurers are rising accordingly,” she explained. “Today’s clients increasingly demand enhanced support and value-added solutions that can help them navigate an unpredictable landscape.

“The need for rapid response when vessels or cargo are entering designated war or high-risk zones cannot be overstated. Clients expect insurers to provide swift communication and decisive action in these situations. Delays in approvals or coverage confirmation can have significant operational and safety implications, as well as impact the insurer’s reputation.”

Lin added: “Access to real-time risk intelligence has also become a high priority. Clients now expect dynamic geopolitical risk dashboards, port and location risk scores, and vessel tracking systems, ideally with insurance triggers integrated into these platforms. This level of insight enables them to make informed decisions quickly and manage exposures more proactively.

“Claims responsiveness is another critical factor influencing the choice of insurance partners. In today’s environment, the speed, transparency and reliability of claims handling can set an insurer apart. Clients value partners who can deliver swift and clear communication throughout the claims process, ensuring that disruptions are minimised and trust is maintained.”

Lin said there is now Moreover, a growing expectation for consultative services. Clients want insurers to go beyond simply providing coverage by offering strategic risk advisory. This includes guidance on compliance planning, navigating sanctions and implementing proactive risk mitigation strategies. Such consultative support is seen as essential to managing the increasingly complex regulatory and operational landscape.

“Having weathered multiple geopolitical shocks, clients now seek more than just opportunistic premium deals,” she added. “They’re selectively choosing established war-risk underwriters – insurers who demonstrate long-term commitment, maintain their presence through crises rather than retreat at the first sign of tension, and consistently offer commercially viable quotes to support their operations.”

The ongoing conflicts in the Middle East are weighing heavily on shipping firms and cargo owners.

“In response to escalating threats, shipowners operating in the Persian Gulf are implementing enhanced safety measures, including potential hazard pay and mental wellness support for crews, to mitigate risks associated with missile strikes and drone attacks,” Lin explained. “Consequently, cargo delays are becoming increasingly probable, leading to trade uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.

“Despite sustained tensions in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, rerouting remains many shipowners’ only viable option – confidence to return has yet to recover.

“This detour exacerbates crew fatigue and defers essential maintenance schedules, which increases the risk of operational delays, vessel attrition, and cargo losses.”

Now entering its fourth year, the Russia–Ukraine war shows no signs of resolution. Sanctions imposed on Russia have had limited impact on Russia’s economy, as the country continues to receive support from key allies such as China and India. These sanctions have also increased the administrative burden on businesses, requiring significant time and resources to meet compliance, due diligence, and governance requirements.

The US administration’s tariff policies triggered various trade wars, prompting China to strengthen trade ties with its allies. This realignment may suppress global trade volumes and lead to a decline in overall cargo movement.