The 2023 air cargo peak season is facing weak rebound, with shippers placing orders early indicating a slowdown in demand and freight rates not rising as expected. Although some airlines benefit from e-commerce demand, the overall cargo market remains complex and volatile, with future growth constrained by a slowdown in manufacturing and various supply chain issues.
Trucking industry executives anticipate a freight demand rebound by 2026, which they expect will drive up freight rates and boost company profitability. Experts advise businesses to proactively prepare and optimize operations to capitalize on this industry turnaround. The anticipated increase in demand presents opportunities for improved financial performance and a more stable market environment for trucking companies. Strategic planning and efficient resource management will be crucial for success in the coming years.
Good news for Yiwu toy exporters: Walmart and Target are resuming supplies and absorbing the increased tariff costs. This decision stems from multiple factors, including supply chain stability concerns, the failure to pass on costs, and intense market competition. While uncertainties remain, this development brings a ray of hope to the Yiwu toy industry. The restoration of supply contracts and cost absorption by major retailers like Walmart and Target provides crucial support for Yiwu's toy manufacturers facing international trade challenges.
Industry experts advise shippers seeking the lowest truckload rates to lock in prices early, as the market shows signs of recovery. Excess capacity may ease, potentially leading to a rebound in rates. Shippers should optimize their logistics strategies and strengthen partnerships with carriers to prepare for potential future rate increases. By proactively managing their freight operations, shippers can mitigate the impact of rising costs and maintain a competitive edge in the evolving freight market.
The Logistics Management Index (LMI) reached 60.7 in June, marking two consecutive months of growth and indicating strong market vitality in the logistics sector. Inventory levels have increased significantly, while transportation capacity and price fluctuations have also entered a period of tension. There remains uncertainty regarding the future direction of market demand.
The Prologis IBI Index indicates a turning point in logistics real estate demand, with increased leasing activity and improved utilization rates. This demand recovery is driven by multiple factors, but the 'just-right' inventory strategy remains prevalent. Vacancy rates are expected to remain stable in the short term, potentially tightening in the long run. Companies should closely monitor market dynamics and adapt their strategies to seize opportunities. The rebound suggests a potential shift in the market, requiring businesses to be agile and responsive to changing conditions.
International shipping container freight index has been rising recently, with several shipping companies announcing price increases. Experts attribute this round of price hikes to long-term contract negotiations and expectations of demand recovery, but the actual freight rate trend still depends on market supply and demand. It is expected that the freight rate index will decline in the first quarter, and is likely to stabilize and rebound in the second quarter, but the probability of a surge is low. All parties in the market should respond rationally and jointly maintain market stability.
The Top 30 Chinese airports for cargo flights in Week 19 of 2025 reveals a weak post-holiday rebound and the impact of US tariff policies. Shenzhen Bao'an led in growth, while Zhengzhou Xinzheng experienced the largest decline. Hong Kong International and Shanghai Pudong remained in the top two positions, with Beijing Daxing showing significant improvement. Chinese air cargo companies need to proactively address these challenges. Overall cargo volume is not recovering as quickly as hoped and external factors are playing a role.
The Prologis IBI Index indicates a rebound in demand for logistics real estate, with large enterprises and e-commerce companies driving the recovery. While positive, the market still faces challenges stemming from trade fluctuations and overall economic uncertainty. The index suggests cautious optimism as businesses adapt to the evolving global landscape and seek efficient supply chain solutions. This recovery highlights the continued importance of strategically located and modern logistics facilities.
The Prologis IBI index indicates a rebound in logistics real estate demand, with increased net absorption, new leasing activity, and project pipeline. Companies are actively addressing trade uncertainties by boosting supply chain investments and improving operational efficiency, leading to a better market environment. While vacancy rates remain stable in the short term, construction is slowing down, potentially accelerating rental growth. Investors should focus on prime assets in core locations, adapt flexibly to market changes, and strengthen risk management strategies.
