All News

Current Critical Industry Trends

Shutdown threatens U.S. skies with potential airspace closures. Flight delays are mounting as staffing shortfalls hit critical levels. Over 3 million travelers have already faced disruptions. The FAA says up to 80% of controllers are absent at major hubs, and Secretary Duffy has warned flights could be grounded if no deal is reached soon.

Port peace pact offers short-term boost to global trade. The U.S. and China have agreed to suspend port fees starting next week, part of a deal that includes China’s commitment to import 25 million tonnes of U.S. soybeans each year. Shipowners are cautiously optimistic, though many warn the truce may not last.

Ocean

A new vessel is giving CMA CGM’s Atlantic network a major lift. The VERA RAMBOW boosts total capacity by over 60%, ensuring smoother service and stronger coverage across regional ports. The upgrade supports growing trade demand and enhances schedule reliability.

Singapore and Korea join forces on green and digital shipping. The two nations signed a new partnership to accelerate zero-emission fuel adoption and maritime digitalization. The initiative will align technical standards, develop new bunkering infrastructure, and strengthen training for future-ready seafarers.

Ports

Innovation takes the helm as ports navigate turbulence. From automation projects in London and Mombasa to channel expansions in Houston, ports advanced despite labor unrest and market pressure. Strikes in Antwerp and Rotterdam disrupted operations but reinforced the call for smarter systems.
 

International

Tariff showdown at U.S. Supreme Court could reshape global trade dynamics. The justices will decide whether President Trump’s broad use of emergency powers to impose tariffs was lawful. His administration argues the measures protect national security, while critics warn of economic and diplomatic fallout.

Trucking

Trucking goes greener with RNG. Panelists at the ATA conference emphasized renewable natural gas as a viable, low-carbon alternative to diesel. More than 100,000 heavy-duty trucks already run on RNG, and expanding fueling stations and advanced engines are helping fleets reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

2025 brings a record number of new industry concerns. Four new issues emerged in ATRI’s latest survey, the most in nearly two decades. Motor carriers and drivers alike continue to worry about the economy, operational costs, and capacity challenges, while drivers focus on pay and truck parking.
 

Rail

Serbia now has a direct rail route to the Adriatic. MSC’s new intermodal service from Batajnica to Trieste moves goods weekly with faster transit, greater flexibility, and lower emissions. Trieste’s port hub connects Serbia directly to global markets.
 

Air

Air cargo capacity is shrinking. The U.S. has withdrawn 13 Mexican airline routes, cutting vital belly-hold capacity used by freight forwarders. The Airforwarders Association warns this could strain already tight supply chains and calls for a balanced solution that protects trade and competition.

New cargo link opens between China and the UK. SF Express launched flights from Ezhou Huahu International Airport to East Midlands Airport, enhancing trade connectivity and supply chain resilience. The airline is EMA’s sixth new operator in six months as the airport advances ambitious long-term growth plans.
 

Technology

Cyber risk is rising across the maritime supply chain. A new review found that over 28% of maritime suppliers were rated as high or very-high cyber risk, prompting shipowners to demand stronger ESG and data-security credentials. The findings underscore a shift toward predictive, data-driven risk management in maritime procurement.

Three digital shipping pilots recently put DCSA standards to the test. The trials explored how standardized Booking and Bill of Lading APIs can improve speed, accuracy, and visibility in freight data sharing. The results show how collaboration turns digital frameworks into operational progress.
 

Other

Fewer boxes = fewer sales. The latest data show U.S. corrugated box shipments slumping to the weakest third-quarter level since 2015. Packaging executives say the decline reflects shaky consumer confidence and slower retail activity, suggesting a muted holiday season for sellers and shippers alike.

_____________________________________

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

As always, DBA’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!