The latest Maersk Global Market Update notes that Chinese exports continue to drive growth in global container shipping. In the first half of 2025, China’s share of global trade reached 37%, with shipments to Latin America, Africa, and Europe growing significantly. In Latin America, China’s share increased from 27% in 2019 to 38% in 2025, in Africa from 32% to 39%, and in Europe, the share of Chinese goods in containerized imports rose to 40%. The main demand is driven by technology, mechanical engineering, metallurgy, and chemicals.
At the same time, supply chain diversification is increasing: a number of global companies are relocating some production from China to Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Philippines to mitigate tariff risks. In the US, despite the introduction of new duties and tariffs, inventory levels generally match demand. Although container shipments on the China-North America route fell by 15%, shipments from Southeast Asia increased by 17%.
Maersk emphasizes that the tariff burden on American importers has increased sharply: the average effective rate has reached 25%, up from 5% a year ago. Against this backdrop, companies are increasingly reviewing costs and supply chains, seeking flexibility and risk mitigation.