The US tariff policy has triggered a trade war, severely impacting the global shipping industry. Sectors like container shipping, car transportation, and energy exports are all affected, leading to increased shipping rates and global economic uncertainty. The goal of revitalizing the US shipbuilding industry is unlikely to be achieved in the short term. Ultimately, consumers and businesses will pay the price for trade protectionism.
Following US-China talks in Geneva, both sides announced a pause on some tariff measures, sending a positive signal to the market. However, the 90-day window, combined with the peak North American restocking season, may trigger rising US East Coast freight rates and capacity constraints. Export companies need to seize opportunities, adapt flexibly, diversify risks, and closely monitor market dynamics to gain an advantage amidst uncertainty.
Freight forwarders play a vital role in international trade. An excellent forwarder should provide competitive pricing, flexibility in delivery schedules, control of goods, tracking of cargo status, handling urgent shipments, and managing documentation. Choosing the right forwarder requires attention to their preferred routes, pricing, and services. Verifying quotes from forwarders ensures transparency, which contributes to the smooth development of business relationships.
Recent data shows that the USD/JPY exchange rate has reached 147.71628 yen, indicating a strong market trend for the dollar. The high and low fluctuations over the past 30 days reflect uncertainty in the market, with the Bank of Japan's monetary policy being a key factor in the yen's depreciation. Investors need to pay attention to future economic data and policy changes to navigate exchange rate fluctuations.
US Class 8 truck orders plummeted in June, hitting a multi-year low. This sharp decline is attributed to several factors, including tariffs, economic uncertainty, and environmental regulations. The market is weakening, and companies need to closely monitor market trends, optimize product structures, and embrace technological innovation to meet challenges and seize opportunities. The downturn highlights the sensitivity of the trucking industry to broader economic pressures and policy changes.
Since 2025, international trade capacity in the Pacific region has decreased by 11% due to the uncertainty of US tariff policies. Shipping companies are responding by adjusting capacity and canceling sailings, but the fundamental issue lies in the direction of trade policy and changes in demand. The shipping industry faces challenges and needs to closely monitor the market and flexibly adjust strategies. Shippers also need to strengthen risk management.
November US container imports decreased by 3.2% year-over-year, marking the third consecutive month of decline and falling below October's figures. This data potentially indicates cooling US consumer demand and global economic uncertainty. As a global trade indicator, the continued decline may signal challenges for the global economy, warranting close attention. The decreasing import volume suggests a weakening economic outlook and could foreshadow broader economic difficulties ahead.
The trucking industry faces multiple challenges, including environmental policy adjustments, potential labor regulation changes, and fluctuating market demands. Companies must balance environmental compliance with economic benefits, prioritize driver safety and operational efficiency, and actively embrace technology. Optimizing supply chains and offering diversified services are crucial for success amidst uncertainty. Navigating these complexities requires a strategic approach that adapts to evolving regulations and market trends while maintaining profitability and sustainability.
The Prologis IBI indicator suggests a turning point for logistics real estate demand in Q3, with improvements in net absorption, new lease signings, and the project pipeline. Large enterprises and essential goods industries are driving growth, while a 'just enough' inventory strategy reflects companies' response to uncertainty. Vacancy rates are expected to remain stable in the short term, but the market may tighten in the long term, potentially accelerating rental growth.
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.
