Japan Airlines and Cargolux Airlines announced a new partnership, effective April 1, 2026. The collaboration will cover the Narita-Luxembourg-Narita and Narita-Chicago-Narita cargo routes and aims to strengthen air cargo connections between Asia, Europe, and North America. Under the agreement, the airlines will combine their networks and offer customers expanded cargo transportation options.
Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG recorded growth in key performance indicators for the 2025 financial year, despite economic challenges, geopolitical tensions, and uncertainty in US trade policy. Group revenue increased by 9.9% to €1.76 billion, while operating profit (EBIT) increased by 19.5% to €160.5 million. Container throughput reached 6.295 million TEU (up 5.4%), while intermodal throughput reached 1.982 million TEU (up 10.9%). Net profit, however, decreased to €9.8 million due to one-time tax effects.
The Kazakh government has adopted a resolution expanding the Aktau Seaport Special Economic Zone to 10,000 hectares by annexing additional land parcels totaling 569.61 hectares. This decision aims to strengthen the transport and logistics potential of the Mangystau Region and further develop port infrastructure on the Caspian Sea.
Hamburg-based global logistics company Fr. Meyer’s Sohn (FMS) announced the acquisition of Oslo-based Norwegian logistics provider Front Shipping AS. The deal is part of FMS’s strategy to expand in the Nordic countries and strengthen its project logistics capabilities. Following the acquisition of the Swedish company in 2024, the integration of Front Shipping is the next step in creating a unified platform in Scandinavia with offices in Sweden and Norway.
Global logistics company DSV is reporting significant disruptions to cargo movements in the Middle East, but continues to support operations using its extensive network and partners to find alternative routes. Air freight is limited: international airlines have suspended flights to Israel, national carriers are operating partially, and the redistribution of cargo through China and Hong Kong is increasing pressure on key trade corridors and driving up tariffs. Sea freight is also affected: most shipping lines have suspended services to the Persian Gulf due to the cancellation of war risk insurance, and cargo is being rerouted to safe ports for onward delivery by land or rail.
The HHLA TK Estonia terminal in Muuga will be the first in Europe to use fully battery-powered Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes, capable of operating an entire shift on battery power alone. The cranes, delivered by Konecranes, will arrive at the end of the year and will form part of the terminal’s strategy for sustainable development, emission reduction, and modernization of its container yard infrastructure.
On March 11, 2026, MEDLOG, part of the MSC Group, and China Master Logistics (CMLOG), a Chinese logistics company, announced the launch of a new joint venture with a network of five cold storage facilities in Shanghai, Tianqing, and Ningbo. The new facility is the third and largest in the joint network of cold storage facilities, supporting MEDLOG’s strategic expansion in the cold chain segment along China’s coastline and growing demand for imported frozen and perishable goods.
ÖBB Rail Cargo Group is strengthening its position in Southeastern Europe with the launch of regular freight services on the upgraded railway line between Budapest and Belgrade. The modernized section, approximately 350 km long, significantly increases capacity and reduces delivery times, improving the region’s connection to key European transport corridors. The line is particularly important for cargo flows from Greek ports, including the Port of Piraeus, as well as shipments from Asia to Europe.
The digital process for processing imported containers through the German Ports platform is entering its final stage, with transport companies and truck drivers now connected to the system. A valid digital permit is now required to receive a container, allowing terminals to verify carrier data in real time upon entry. This creates a unified digital chain from container arrival to release at German North Sea ports.
UIRR has called on EU institutions to press ahead with the modernisation of the Combined Transport Directive, presenting combined transport as a practical response to Europe’s energy challenges and continued dependence on imported oil.
