In 2025, the logistics industry will face multiple challenges, including rising tariffs, labor disputes, and increasing transportation costs. Supply chain managers need to prepare in advance and respond flexibly to ensure operational efficiency.
Fourth-party logistics (4PL) plays a vital role in modern supply chains by collaborating with 3PL providers to enhance service quality and operational efficiency. Its models include the "supply chain optimizer" (focused on technical support) and "solution integrator" (emphasizing comprehensive management). Case studies demonstrate 4PL's strong potential in cost optimization and service improvement, helping companies maintain competitive advantages.
Multimodal transport enhances global logistics efficiency and safety by seamlessly integrating various modes of transport such as ships, trains, and trucks. This model is applicable not only to maritime and air transportation but also facilitates efficient flow in land supply chains. Effectively managing the connections and coordination of each transport segment is crucial for improving overall supply chain efficiency.
The Trump administration's new tariff policy raises the import duties on Canadian goods to 35% and adjusts the reciprocal tariff structures for approximately 70 trading partners, posing new challenges for the global supply chain.
This article examines the issues of unreliability in the maritime industry and its impact on shippers. It also offers a range of response strategies to enhance the resilience and reliability of the supply chain.
The Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) released its 'Top 10 Trends for 2026' report, revealing that AI, trade dynamics, workforce evolution, resilience, and sustainability will reshape global supply chains. Businesses need to pay attention to these trends to build intelligent, resilient, and sustainable supply chains to meet future challenges. The report highlights the importance of adapting to changing trade landscapes and leveraging technology like AI to improve efficiency and visibility. Furthermore, building robust and flexible supply chains is crucial for navigating disruptions and ensuring long-term success.
As businesses grow, cold chain logistics becomes increasingly complex. Professional cold chain management services, such as Maersk Cold Chain Logistics, help companies focus on their core business and improve efficiency and competitiveness through cold chain design optimization, operational management, and technology applications. Outsourcing cold chain management is a key strategy for businesses to address market challenges. It allows companies to leverage expertise and resources, ensuring product integrity and regulatory compliance throughout the cold chain.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has launched iReefer, a service leveraging IoT technology for real-time monitoring of refrigerated containers, enhancing transparency and reliability in cold chain transportation. The service offers 24/7 monitoring, anomaly alerts, and data analytics, catering to temperature-sensitive goods like food and pharmaceuticals. It aims to reduce spoilage risks, improve efficiency, and drive the digital transformation of the cold chain logistics industry. Customers can register for iReefer through the MSC website or offices.
This article explores the five major trends in cold chain logistics for 2025, including market shifts, enhanced visualization, emerging products, upgraded storage facilities, and improved distribution strategies. Amid geopolitical pressures and the rise of new products, the cold chain sector faces opportunities for renewal and innovation. As market demand continues to grow in the future, companies must invest in technology and upgrade facilities to strengthen their competitiveness.
The pandemic and trade policy changes have accelerated the growth of cold chain logistics demand and industry consolidation. Technological innovations such as IoT and big data drive cold chain intelligence, improving end-to-end traceability, smart warehousing, and optimized scheduling. Companies need to strengthen risk management, invest in technology, optimize the supply chain, and focus on sustainable development to seize opportunities and win the future amidst uncertainty. This includes adopting advanced monitoring systems, predictive analytics, and eco-friendly practices to ensure efficiency and resilience in the cold chain.
