In August 2024, China's warehouse index rose to 50.2%, indicating a recovery in the industry. Key indicators such as end-of-period inventory, average inventory turnover, number of employees, and business expectations have improved. However, the new orders index remains below the prosperity line, suggesting that demand has not fully recovered.
The Logistics Manager Index for June 2025 continues to rise, reaching 60.7, indicating a strong recovery in the logistics industry after recent fluctuations. Significant increases in inventory levels and costs have driven the growth of the index, while there is a shrinking trend in warehousing and transportation capacity. Uncertainty regarding future demand and trade policies remains a challenge.
The General Administration of Customs has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Ningbo Shipping Exchange to promote the research of the Maritime Silk Road Trade Index and the Export Leading Index. This initiative aims to provide data support for small and medium-sized enterprises and government decision-making, while also aiding the research and analysis of the global trade situation.
The General Administration of Customs' Global Trade Monitoring and Analysis Center has signed a memorandum of cooperation with the Ningbo Shipping Exchange to engage in in-depth collaboration in global trade research and index construction. This partnership aims to leverage big data analysis to enhance the responsiveness of trade markets and support the development of both domestic and international trade.
The Prologis IBI Index indicates a turning point in logistics real estate demand, with the Q3 activity index reaching 53. Net absorption, new lease signings, and project pipelines all show healthy growth. E-commerce and large enterprises are driving the increase, but trade volatility introduces uncertainty. The market recovery is non-linear, and businesses need to pay close attention to international trade developments.
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 Guangzhou Port Authority announced a trial run of the 'Pearl River Shipping Freight Rate Index' aimed at optimizing bulk logistics and enhancing Guangzhou's market influence. The forum discussed the advantages of strengthening river-sea and rail-water transportation. Future efforts will focus on increasing infrastructure development and port capacity. Additionally, the index will monitor freight rate fluctuations in real-time, providing valuable reference for the industry and contributing to Guangzhou's goal of becoming an international shipping center.
The Cass Freight Index indicates a decline in both U.S. freight volumes and expenditures in August, signaling a potential economic slowdown. Freight volumes decreased by 9.3% year-over-year and 1.5% month-over-month. Freight expenditures fell by 0.4% year-over-year and 2.8% month-over-month. This data reflects weakening consumer demand and corporate inventory adjustments, raising concerns about future economic trends. The index serves as a warning sign, suggesting a possible deceleration in economic activity.
The Prologis IBI index indicates a rebound in logistics real estate demand. The third-quarter IBI activity index reached 53, with improvements in net absorption, new lease signings, and the pipeline of planned projects. Large corporations and e-commerce companies are the primary drivers of this recovery. It's anticipated that other businesses will follow suit, contributing to a broader market resurgence. This suggests a positive outlook for the sector, driven by increasing demand and healthy activity levels.
The Q3 Freight Index reveals that the logistics industry faces multiple challenges, including freight rate pressure, policy changes, and demand imbalances. Businesses need to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs through technological innovation and enhanced collaboration to weather the market downturn and achieve sustainable development. The index highlights the need for proactive strategies to navigate the current economic climate and build resilience within the supply chain. Addressing these challenges is crucial for long-term success in the evolving logistics landscape.
