30-07-2025
Shifting demand, tariffs make APAC container shipping fickle: Dimerco
Container shipping in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region remains volatile due to shifting demand and US tariffs, according to Taiwan-headquartered Dimerco Express Group, which recently said carriers have increased blank sailings on Asia-to-US routes to manage excess capacity.
Many shippers frontloaded ahead of the August 12 tariff deadline, weakening July volumes. Carriers will cut Asia-to-US capacity by 6.2 per cent in August, the company said in its 'APAC Freight Report: August 2025'.
APAC container shipping remains volatile due to shifting demand and US tariffs, according to Taiwan-headquartered Dimerco Express Group. Carriers have raised blank sailings on Asia-to-US routes to manage excess capacity, it said. Many shippers frontloaded ahead of the August 12 tariff deadline, weakening July volumes. Carriers will cut Asia-to-US capacity by 6.2 per cent in August, the company said.
'In the US, unclear tariff policies are causing unpredictable shipping and sourcing patterns. Although a temporary tariff pause has helped in the short term, higher tariffs are expected in August. This is leading to rushed shipments now but may result in reduced trade and higher costs later,' said Alvin Fuh, vice president, ocean freight, at the company.
'With conflict risks, tariff uncertainty and vessel supply imbalances, the ocean freight market is likely to stay unstable. Shippers should stay flexible and prepare for continued disruptions,' he noted in a company release.
In Malaysia, Port Klang remains congested, with vessel waiting times reaching up to 70 hours. Some carriers may choose to skip the port entirely.
Port congestion and container shortages at Laem Chabang in Thailand have improved, easing some of the earlier operational challenges.
Growing interest from companies expanding into the Australian market is also driving up cargo demand.
With the ongoing monsoon season in several parts of India, shrink wrapping is recommended to protect cargo from potential water damage.
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)
