The global ocean freight market is facing a fraught outlook in 2025, a new DHL update finds, characterized by economic headwinds, geopolitical tensions and industry restructuring.
Global economic growth is projected to slow to 2.5% in 2025, the weakest since 2009 outside of the pandemic. But even in this tough climate, container trade remains resilient. In 2024, volumes grew 7.7%, led by exports from Asia-Pacific, particularly from China. A further 4.3% increase is expected in 2025.
Despite a record 9 million TEUs of new vessel capacity on order, only two-thirds will be delivered before 2028, slowing fleet expansion. Meanwhile, port congestion remains a significant challenge, particularly in Europe.
As of early April, more than 935,000 TEU were waiting at North European and Mediterranean anchorages, accounting for 32% of the global total. Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Antwerp are experiencing severe congestion and berthing delays.
The ocean freight sector is dealing with more complex regulations. Key developments include the EU’s ICS2 release 3 rollout, evolving U.S. tariff policies, and a proposed 25% tariff on oil imports from Venezuela—potentially impacting China and India.
Source: American Shipper
