In the second quarter of 2023, the U.S. industrial real estate market demonstrated stable resilience with a net absorption of approximately 29.9 million square feet. The demand growth was driven by new logistics products, despite rising vacancy rates and consolidation pressures in some regions. By 2025, new supply is expected to exceed absorption, while absorption is projected to surpass supply by 2027.
Tianjin has made significant progress in supply chain system development, with 19 pilot projects effectively promoting the standardization, intelligence, and safety of logistics. Through policy support, the establishment of standard systems, and innovation in smart supply chain platforms, logistics costs in the city have decreased, and safety management has improved, injecting new momentum into economic development.
Equatorial Guinea's new commercial port has officially commenced operations outside the city of Bata. With a maximum draft of 11.59 meters and deep-water berths of 16.38 meters, the port enhances shipping efficiency and optimizes services, paving the way for future growth in cargo transportation and the economy.
The trade landscape in the Middle East is rapidly changing, with countries reforming customs processes to promote the development of the non-oil economy. Saudi Arabia's total trade reached $286 billion in 2023, highlighting its regional dominance. As nations like Jordan, Iraq, and Kuwait actively expand international trade and seek economic diversification, customs reform is playing a crucial role. Partnering with efficient logistics providers will be key for businesses to navigate the complexities of customs.
The Zhengzhou-Europe Railway Express has recently introduced a new 3-hour fast customs clearance mechanism, optimizing international logistics efficiency. Connecting China and Europe through Alashankou and Erenhot ports, it promotes cross-border trade and enhances transportation timeliness. So far, 250 trips have been made, with a total cargo value of 1.173 billion USD, establishing a new benchmark for international logistics.
In recent years, the China-Europe Railway Express has rapidly developed through the Manzhouli Port, establishing multiple routes directly to various cities in Europe. It has shown significant advantages in saving costs and transportation time, promoting economic development in China's central and western regions. With the advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, the China-Europe Railway Express has become an important tool for deepening cooperation between China and Europe across multiple fields, and it is expected to further enhance trade exchanges and regional development.
Luzhou Port's Bonded Logistics Center (Type B) has officially begun operations, becoming the fourth Customs Special Supervision Zone in Sichuan Province. This center aims to provide efficient policy support and logistics solutions for enterprises, promoting local economic development and serving as an important platform for regional openness. In the future, the Luzhou Port Bonded Logistics Center will be developed into a fully modernized logistics service center, contributing to the growth of the Sichuan-Yunnan-Guizhou-Chongqing junction.
Yingkou Port actively participates in the Belt and Road initiative, with a 4% increase in throughput in the first three quarters. Both foreign trade and container volumes have significantly risen, and new international trains to Europe have been launched, establishing a sea-rail intermodal network that enhances its role as a key transit hub in Northeast Asia. Domestic trade routes cover over 30 ports with 420 flights, promoting the port's digital transformation and integration into cross-border e-commerce. Yingkou Port demonstrates great development potential, contributing to regional economic growth.
CMA CGM's container vessel "Osiris" successfully navigated the Suez Canal, signaling renewed mega-ship operations. To attract large vessels, the SCA offers 15% toll discounts. This follows significant traffic declines due to Houthi attacks that forced diversions. The transit revitalizes shipping hopes for normalcy.
The Ministry of Public Security has extended the age limit for applying for a medium and large passenger and freight vehicle driving license from 60 to 63 years, aiming to address the aging crisis among freight drivers. The policy also allows drivers meeting certain conditions to extend the age limit to 66 years. This brings new job opportunities but raises concerns about employment for younger drivers.
