The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a 50% tariff on appliances containing steel components starting June 23, affecting various essential household products. This policy is expected to raise the cost of living for families and increase market uncertainty.
Recent changes in China-U.S. trade policies have led to a dramatic increase in trans-Pacific freight volume, causing concerns among surveyed small and medium-sized enterprises. Despite a recovery in the market, container shipping rates continue to rise, and foreseeable policy adjustments pose challenges for the future of the shipping market.
DHL has partnered with Neste to provide 9.5 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Singapore from 2025 to 2026. This initiative aims to help the aviation industry reduce carbon emissions and achieve environmental goals. As a result, the use of SAF in DHL's flights in Singapore will reach 40%.
Since its inception in 2014, the Zhengzhou to Luxembourg 'Sky Silk Road' has cumulatively transported over 1.2 million tons of cargo, elevating Luxembourg Cargo Airlines to the fifth position globally. This route connects 24 countries and over 200 cities across Europe, America, and Asia, making Zhengzhou Airport the fifth largest international air freight hub in China.
The world's largest shipping company, MSC, intends to acquire the Mangalia shipyard in Romania to enhance its shipbuilding capabilities. Despite its poor financial condition, there has been a resurgence in activity, and the future of the shipbuilding industry looks promising.
Auckland Port has recently completed the renovation of Berth 10, where ShibataFenderTeam supplied five sets of cone fender systems. Through customized design and meticulous construction, the lifespan and operational efficiency of the berth have been enhanced, ensuring effective load distribution and laying a solid foundation for future port development.
The Port of Los Angeles expects a 10% decrease in container throughput in the second half of this year, primarily due to market changes triggered by U.S. tariff policies against several countries. Despite a strong start to the year, the industry is filled with uncertainty about the future and must remain vigilant.
In the first half of 2025, cargo volume at the Port of Rotterdam decreased by 4.1%, with significant declines in both dry bulk and liquid bulk shipments. Although there was a slight increase in bulk throughput and a 2.7% growth in container transport, overall competitiveness remains under severe pressure. The port authority expressed concerns about low investment levels, highlighting the importance of revitalizing trade vitality for the future.
Recently, Guangdong Province launched several policies to support cross-border e-commerce. These initiatives include eliminating the registration requirement for overseas warehouse companies, simplifying document declarations, enhancing the efficiency of LCL shipments, and promoting returns across regions, making it easier and more efficient for cross-border e-commerce sellers to conduct their business.
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.
