Asia Pacific

In some recent correspondence I had with a friend at global express delivery and logistics services provider DHL, the subject of the logistics-related issues coming out of Asia was front and center, to be sure.

Amid border closures, shutdowns and lockdowns, Asia Pacific air cargo carriers are striving to maintain critical air connectivity. At the same time, airlines are seeking regulatory assistance in streamlining operations, scheduling flights and obtaining crew clearances.

Despite the sabre rattling at top diplomatic levels regarding new trade policies and tariffs, The DHL Global Trade Barometer index continues to forecast a solid growth for global trade as the index hits 67, representing a slight increase (+1) compared to the previous release in March.

While transpacific oceanborne traffic was especially robust this past peak season, industry analysts were also impressed by the air cargo surge in the region. If this trend is to continue, however, the need for improved airport infrastructure is obvious.

Surveys undertaken by global research firms often reveal a “disconnect” between what respondents say they’ll do and how they actually behave. A recent example of this was revealed when Gartner researchers asked Asia/Pacific CEOs about their spend on technology.

The world’s largest regional economic cooperation group convened earlier this month in an effort to assure freer Asia-Pacific trade that secures the advantages of globalization while safeguarding the welfare of people hurt by it in the past.

Declining freight volumes and reconfigured container vessel deployments may give Asia’s ports time to regroup, say industry analysts, who add that investment in infrastructure is badly needed.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced August 2014 data for global air freight markets showing continued “robust”growth in air cargo volumes.

Supply chain security provider Freightwatch International has released its semi-annual report on cargo theft in the Asia Pacific region for the first half of 2014, which contains some heartening news for U.S. shippers reliant on trucking, warehousing and retail.

Threatened by “emerging nation” neighbors that can provide cheaper labor and more cost-effective transportation, China is now pushing back with even more development to keep pace.

Brian Conrad, Executive Administrator, Transpacific Stabilization Agreement, says markets is "prone to wild swings"

FedEx recently announced that its FedEx Express subsidiary has expanded its network coverage from Asia to Middle East markets.

Opening these new offices is part of an ongoing trend for the company in terms of expanding its global reach.

Earlier this week, UPS marked the one-year anniversary of its Shenzhen Asia Pacific hub, which serves the company’s entire intra-Asian network. UPS also announced that in June it is rolling out a new direct weekly flight from Guam to Hong Kong, which connects Guam to the rest of the world.