RESILIENCE AT THE HEART OF INTERNATIONAL LOGISTICS

Freight rate volatility, port congestion, blank sailings, geopolitical tensions, US trade policy and tariffs, and soaring energy costs: international supply chains continue to face numerous sources of uncertainty. In this context, resilience has become a key challenge for everyone: anticipating disruptions, adapting quickly, and offering alternative solutions to limit their impact on flows.

FREIGHT MARKETS REMAIN HIGHLY VOLATILE

Freight rates are currently moving in very different directions depending on the trade lane. Transpacific rates are rising sharply, while Asia–Europe rates continue to trend downward. What’s more, with Golden Week approaching, carriers are adjusting capacity through blank sailings.

On top of this, congestion remains significant in Asia, particularly at the major ports of Shanghai and Ningbo, where waiting times are measured in days.

Rising energy costs linked to the conflict in the Middle East are also affecting ocean freight costs. Several carriers are passing on this increase by introducing or adjusting bunker surcharges, which are likely to change rapidly depending on market conditions.

SUEZ CANAL: A CAUTIOUS RETURN OF CONTAINER SHIPS

Several carriers are gradually resuming transits through the Suez Canal. Gemini has announced the return of several of its services connecting Asia to North Europe, Asia to the Mediterranean, and India to Europe. MSC has also announced a partial resumption of transits via this route. However, this reopening remains dependent on how the security situation in the Red Sea evolves.

This means routings need to be reassessed quickly as conditions, transit times, and available capacity change.

RISKS EXTENDING BEYOND OCEAN FREIGHT

Pressure is also building on inland transport. In Europe, rising diesel prices are directly impacting road freight costs and may affect pre-carriage and on-carriage operations.

At the same time, changes in US tariffs are weighing on international businesses. With the midterm elections approaching on November 3, 2026, political uncertainty in the United States is further heightening vigilance across international trade, as trade and tariff policies remain subject to change.

Our teams are here to support you, adapt, and offer solutions tailored to your needs.