What’s Going On?
Ongoing Middle East tensions and Strait of Hormuz uncertainty continue to disrupt global fuel supply, driving higher logistics costs and tighter capacity, while strong AI and electronics demand adds further pressure on already constrained networks.
Air Outlook
Jet fuel shortages and airspace restrictions are cutting flight capacity and tightening air cargo space across Asia, especially on Asia–Europe routes.
Strong AI and electronics demand is keeping rates high, while tight capacity is driving backlogs across key Northeast and Southeast Asian hubs.
Ocean Freight Outlook
The market remains mixed, with fuel volatility and carrier surcharges such as EBS and BAF continuing to pressure costs despite balanced capacity on some lanes.
Meanwhile, congestion at transshipment hubs and European ports is causing 5–7 day delays, while uneven demand is keeping rates firmer on stronger trades and softer on weaker lanes.
The Persian Gulf situation is something we’re watching closely. Rising fuel costs at key bunker hubs, and the risk of shortages if conditions don’t improve, are already starting to shape how carriers adjust their rates and service networks moving forward.
Trade Compliance
The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched Phase 1 of the CAPE (Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries) system, enabling electronic filing of IEEPA tariff refunds via the ACE Portal starting April 20, 2026.
This marks a shift from passive refund expectations to an active filing process by importers and brokers.
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Demand for traditional commodities is still relatively stable, but cost pressure is building across the board. With fuel surcharges rising and capacity tightening, shippers are having to plan earlier and manage costs much more carefully than before.
VP, Global Sales and Marketing, Dimerco Express Group