Recent changes in China-U.S. trade policies have led to a dramatic increase in trans-Pacific freight volume, causing concerns among surveyed small and medium-sized enterprises. Despite a recovery in the market, container shipping rates continue to rise, and foreseeable policy adjustments pose challenges for the future of the shipping market.
The U.S. will implement import tariffs on August 1, facing urgent challenges and uncertainties in the transportation sector. Despite strong economic growth data, anxiety over policy changes complicates future impact assessments. The tariffs may lead to reduced consumer spending and increased unemployment rates. Core inflation is expected to rise to 3.6% by 2025.
With the rise of e-commerce, the global air cargo industry is gradually transitioning towards converting passenger aircraft into freighters (P2F). Major airlines are strategically positioning themselves to meet the increasing market demand. This trend is expected to significantly enhance air cargo capacity and provide airlines with more cost-effective and flexible solutions.
JD Freight Airlines recently obtained its air operator certificate and officially commenced operations. As an emerging aviation logistics company within the e-commerce sector, it primarily conducts domestic and international cargo transportation using Boeing 738-800 freighters. The service is expected to cover key economic regions such as the Yangtze River Delta, Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, and the Pearl River Delta, while also aiming to expand into international markets. This development not only enhances logistics efficiency but also introduces new innovations and collaborative models within the industry.
The Linfen new energy heavy-duty truck market is undergoing a transition from policy guidance to market orientation. Users have calculated the economic advantages of 'electricity is cheaper than gas', which accelerates the rapid development of new energy heavy-duty trucks. The gradual maturation of policies and technological advancements have led to explosive growth in electric heavy-duty trucks, positioning Linfen as a key region in the electric heavy-duty truck market.
By 2025, cross-border logistics costs will be under pressure as transport fees rise due to port charges and supply-demand fluctuations. Differentiated tariff policies require adjustments to export mechanisms, while intelligent warehousing management optimizes costs. Policy risks, such as increased renewable energy requirements, add to corporate burdens, necessitating flexible responses from all parties.
Taichung Port, with its advantageous geographic location and integrated transportation network, has become a crucial hub for shipping in East Asia. As bulk cargo continues to rise and infrastructure improves, Taichung Port plays a key role in enhancing economic ties across the Taiwan Strait. It actively implements sustainable development strategies to bolster its international competitiveness.
As the container ship leasing market shifts towards feeder sizes, it is expected that transaction activity for 2500 to 2800 TEU vessels will rise, with supply and demand tightening giving shipowners increased pricing power. Recent leasing deals between Swire Shipping and CMA CGM indicate a revival in market activity, and competition is anticipated to intensify in the coming weeks.
Recent developments in China-US trade relations have led to a significant increase in shipping costs, with container freight rates from Shanghai to New York rising by 19%. A shortage of shipping capacity and the evolving trade dynamics have further exacerbated this trend, and it is expected that costs may continue to rise in the future.
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.
