All News

Current Critical Industry Trends

U.S. and China strike new trade deal. Announced June 11, the U.S. will secure access to Chinese magnets and rare earth minerals, while tariffs on Chinese goods will go to 55%. The agreement comes amid heightened scrutiny of China’s rare earth industry, with ongoing concerns over alleged coercive labor practices.
 

DHL Express Canada workers strike after lockout. Over 2,000 employees walked off the job on June 9 following the company's decision to lock them out. The union cites wages, working conditions, and workplace surveillance as key sticking points in stalled contract talks.
 

Ocean

U.S. shipbuilding decline sparks security concerns. With U.S.-flagged ships down to 0.4% of the global fleet, lawmakers are pushing port fees on Chinese-built vessels and the SHIPS Act to rebuild domestic capacity. Experts warn the lack of U.S. ships and shipyards threatens supply chain resilience and national security.
 

Ports

Port congestion and vessel shifts disrupt global trade lanes. Labor unrest in Rotterdam and Antwerp has strained European port flows, while strong demand in Brazil tightens capacity across South America. Asia – Europe routes now carry nearly 25% of global TEU capacity, as Suez Canal disruptions and shifting alliances drive up volumes. Carriers are slowly reallocating vessels to Pacific trades amid rising demand and tariff reprieves.
 

International

Firefighters contain Wan Hai 503 blaze as drifting containers threaten coast. About 40% of the fire is controlled, and the vessel is being towed 44 nautical miles offshore due to fuel risks. Between 10 and 15 containers have broken loose and may reach shore by June 12. The ship carries 1,754 containers, including 143 hazardous ones.
 

Trucking

U.S. cross-border freight with Canada and Mexico hits record high. March 2025 saw $144.8 billion in trade value, up 8.4% year over year. Trucks moved $94.2 billion, carrying over 60% of surface trade across land borders.
 

Rail

U.S. rail performance highlights shifting economic momentum. Intermodal volumes posted their slowest growth in nearly two years at just 0.6%. Carloads rose steadily with weekly averages nearing 224,000 units across May.
 

Air

Airfreight rides short-term gains amid trade volatility. Reduced U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods fueled a spike in May shipments. Despite a 14% surge on China-U.S. lanes, global air cargo rates declined.
 

Finnair reaches pilot deal but turbulence remains on the ground. Over 600 flights face cancellation on June 17 and 19 due to planned airport staff strikes. Cargo operations could see delays despite a 3-year agreement finally reached with pilots.

Technology

Zero-emission bulk shipping gets closer with ammonia-powered vessels. ABS has given green light to Pherousa’s ammonia cracking system for fully electric ship propulsion. These 64,000 dwt carriers will deliver copper without a single gram of carbon released.

Other

3PLs stand to win big in a volatile trade environment. Ocean carrier costs surged 93% in 2024 and shippers now demand flexible, tech-enabled logistics. With tariffs and global disruptions growing, smarter 3PLs are doubling down on last-mile and LTL partnerships.

Cloud labeling paves the way for digital supply chain transparency. 82% of companies remain unprepared for EU’s Digital Product Passport rollout. With adoption expected to rise 63% in the next 3 years, real-time data and cloud labels are critical for compliance and consumer trust.

_____________________________________

Want more like this? We've got you covered. Subscribe today! 

As always, Airgroup’s team is here to help. Our expert teams are ready to answer any questions you may have or give advice for managing the current logistics environment. Additionally, if you need help moving freight or gaining visibility and control over your supply chain, we’d happily discuss what Radiant can do for you. Contact us!