In June, global air freight spot prices continued to decline, with demand surpassing supply for the first time. Country-specific tariff policies have caused market unrest, indicating that the air cargo industry will face more severe challenges in the second half of the year.
UPS's recent second-quarter financial report indicates declines in both revenue and profit, with the complexity of tariff policies leading to uncertain projections for the full year. The company emphasizes its commitment to maintaining agile responses and optimizing operational efficiency in an unpredictable market.
The global micro duty-free transport policy will be completely abolished across all countries, significantly impacting brands, consumers, and the logistics market. Brands must quickly adjust their strategies to respond to the new tariff policies in order to maintain market competitiveness and meet consumer demands.
U.S. retailers are gradually adapting to the new normal of fluctuating tariff policies, focusing more on market information and supply-demand dynamics to optimize their import strategies and cost management. They enhance supply chain efficiency through effective communication and data analysis, actively responding to the uncertainty in trade.
In 2025, U.S. tariff policies present both challenges and opportunities for the plastic, paper, and metal markets. Experts note that the plastic industry is less exposed to trade issues, with enhanced domestic production capabilities. In contrast, the paper market is more affected by fluctuations in the global economy.
Delta Airlines' CEO stated that tariff policies have led to a decline in bookings. The company plans to not increase flight capacity in the second half of 2025 and will delay the delivery of Airbus aircraft. Despite exceeding expectations in the first quarter earnings report, the industry outlook remains grim.
This article delves into key trends and future outlooks of the air freight market, discussing issues such as changes in cargo volume, the impact of tariff policies, and FAA personnel shortages. It also presents predictions for the peak season of 2025, aiming to provide valuable insights and considerations for industry participants.
On July 9, Trump reiterated the threat of increased tariffs, while Treasury Secretary Becerra noted that some countries might reach agreements, but not all parties would meet deadlines. The U.S. Secretary of Commerce stated that an agreement with ten major trading partners is forthcoming, increasing pressure on national survival. Cargo owners and freight forwarders must closely monitor policy changes to mitigate potential risks.
The China-US tariff truce agreement lasting 90 days may stimulate demand in the international shipping market, with projections indicating that US imports could exceed the peak levels seen during the pandemic within the next three months. An increase in shipping rates is becoming a trend, but industry insiders remain cautious about the specific trajectory of freight prices. Major shipping companies are actively preparing for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the market.
In response to market turbulence caused by high tariffs imposed by the U.S., J.B. Hunt Transport and Knight-Swift Transportation are flexibly reallocating resources and optimizing their networks to enhance transportation efficiency. They aim to strengthen collaborations with customers through new operational strategies to adapt to the changing demands.
