The Logistics Manager's Index (LMI) showed strong performance in June, reaching 60.7, indicating a recovery trend in the industry. Inventory levels have risen due to increased tariffs, while transportation and warehousing capacities have declined. Despite optimistic short-term growth, long-term market demand remains uncertain, and future trade policies will significantly impact the entire sector.
Recently, the South African Rand (ZAR) has reached an exchange rate of 0.0563679 against the US dollar, marking a 1.94% increase. Simultaneously, the Rand has also appreciated against major currencies such as the euro and pound, indicating signs of economic recovery in South Africa. However, the market still faces uncertainties that need to be addressed.
As competition intensifies in the global shipping market, South Korean shipping companies urgently need to acquire ultra-large container ships to reduce costs and enhance their market competitiveness. However, liquidity issues and financing difficulties complicate this goal. Additionally, overcapacity in the industry and falling freight rates pose challenges to profitability. Regulatory authorities oppose the merger of two companies, citing potential negative impacts on the overall economy. In the future, businesses must find a breakthrough between new ship investments and market adaptation, with hopes for a recovery.
The global shipping industry is facing a severe challenge with a surplus of empty containers. Data indicates a surge in empty container numbers, while declining consumer demand and a fragile economic recovery are exacerbating storage pressures. Industry experts suggest that the future market environment will be more challenging, and shipping strategies need to be adjusted in a timely manner.
In June, the Logistics Manager Index (LMI) significantly rose to 60.7, marking a strong recovery in the logistics sector. The report highlights improvements in inventory levels and changes in transportation and warehousing capacities. However, it also warns of uncertainties in market demand for the second half of the year, which could impact future economic and logistics trends.
By July 2025, the total number of global flights reached 23,323,428, with an increase of 3% in aviation capacity compared to last year. The Central Asia and South Africa regions saw significant capacity growth, while the increase in seating in Northeast Asia and Western Europe was particularly notable, indicating a gradual recovery of the aviation market.
Recent data shows that the comprehensive export container freight rates have risen for six consecutive weeks, reaching the highest level since September 2022. At the same time, the U.S. has implemented new tariffs on certain goods from China, with increases ranging from 25% to 100%, presenting both opportunities and challenges for the export market. Companies need to respond flexibly and optimize their strategies.
In October 2023, China's warehousing index reached 52.8%, marking a three-month high and reflecting the healthy growth of the industry. Inventory levels, business profits, and the number of employees have all increased, indicating a recovery in market demand. With rising demand and the approach of the Double Eleven shopping festival, the future outlook for warehousing services is generally optimistic.
Rail freight has demonstrated significant growth potential in promoting economic development, particularly by improving transportation efficiency, optimizing services, and building modern logistics systems that provide strong support for various businesses. Through in-depth market-oriented reforms, the establishment of green channels, and the promotion of multimodal transport, rail freight has effectively reduced operating costs and contributed to the recovery and development of the national economy.
In the context of the new economic normal, the shipping industry faces uncertainties in recovery. This paper explores the impact of the Belt and Road Initiative on the shipping market, emphasizing that shipping companies must shift their growth models to focus on endogenous drivers. Companies should enhance their management capabilities and resource allocation abilities to adapt to the complex global economic situation. Additionally, the emergence of new forces, such as the internet, offers new opportunities for business development.
