UNCTAD Warns Global Maritime Trade Growth in 2025 Will Slow To Just 0.5%

Enterprises must take proactive measures to cope with geopolitical tensions and rising logistics costs

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) released its latest report on 24 September 2025, projecting global maritime trade growth at only 0.5% – the lowest since the Red Sea crisis. This figure highlights the mounting pressures from regional conflicts, new tariff policies, and weakening trade demand.

Key Drivers of Disruption

  • Conflicts and maritime security risks: Shipping routes through the Red Sea remain disrupted, forcing vessels to detour around the Cape of Good Hope, significantly increasing voyage times and freight costs.
  • Rising trade costs: The United States and several other major markets have imposed additional tariffs and port fees, destabilising global supply chains.
  • Falling bulk demand: A slowing world economy has reduced demand for raw materials, directly impacting the bulk shipping market.
  • Environmental pressures: Stricter carbon-reduction regulations require substantial investments in fleet upgrades and green technologies, driving up operational costs.

Outlook 2026–2030: Signs of Recovery

  • Average maritime trade growth of 2% per year.
  • Containerised trade growth of around 2.3% per year.

Global trade is expected to gradually stabilise as the maritime sector adapts to the new operating environment.

Implications for Vietnamese Enterprises

As a country heavily reliant on seaborne exports, Viet Nam must act quickly to adjust its logistics planning by:

  • Diversifying shipping routes and partners.
  • Optimising costs to maintain competitiveness.
  • Safeguarding supply chain continuity amid rising risks.

Vantage Logistics: Ensuring Supply Chain Stability Amid Global Uncertainty

In this volatile environment, Vantage Logistics stands with our customers through:

  • Strong capabilities in diversified sea freight and multimodal transport.
  • Tailored solutions to optimise schedules and mitigate risks from tariffs and geopolitical instability.
  • In-depth consulting services to help businesses balance costs and ensure on-time delivery.

In uncertain times, choosing an experienced logistics partner is the key to protecting supply chain resilience.
Contact Vantage Logistics today for the right sea freight solutions!

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