Global shipping continues to navigate a delicate balancing act, with shifting demand, regional disruptions, and policy uncertainty all playing their part. The temporary 90-day pause in U.S.–China tariffs has unleashed a wave of frontloading, reinstated services, and redeployed vessels -bringing short-term volume spikes but raising concerns over equipment imbalances and service gaps in other regions, including Australia.
Now creating further uncertainty, in breaking news from the U.S., the U.S. Court of International Trade in a landmark ruling, has declared that President Trump's unilateral tariffs were unconstitutional - striking down most of them, pending appeal. The court reaffirmed that only Congress holds the power to regulate international commerce and impose duties. This decision could have far-reaching implications for global trade relationships, supply chains, and future tariff strategy.
At the same time, European port congestion is intensifying, Red Sea diversions remain in place despite a ceasefire, and carrier surcharges continue to mount. Schedule reliability has become a key concern once again, with rising berth delays across Asia and Europe, and limited spare capacity leaving little room for recovery when disruptions occur.
Meanwhile, Victoria International Container Terminal (VICT) has announced a major sustainability initiative, investing in hybrid straddle carriers as part of its broader plan to expand capacity and reduce emissions.
This edition delves into key developments across capacity, trade flows, schedule reliability, policy impacts, and port operations - helping you stay informed in a fast-moving global environment.
For the full report, please click HERE (FTA/APSA MEMBER LOGIN REQUIRED)Amanda Bradfield - Head of International Freight & Logistics - FTA / APSACopyright © 2025 Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Pty Ltd, All rights reserved.