Freight market volatility in 2025 is being fueled by escalating trade wars, new U.S. tariffs, and shifting global supply chain strategies. Under President Trump’s administration, extensive regulatory changes—like increased tariffs and de minimis rule adjustments—are reshaping the logistics landscape, forcing shippers to adapt rapidly.
In this latest episode of The Freight Buyers’ Club Podcast, supported by Dimerco Express Group, Kathy Liu, VP of Global Sales and Marketing at Dimerco, and shipping industry legend Bronson Hsieh, former Chairman of Evergreen and Yang Ming Shipping, break down the seismic shifts in global trade, the far-reaching impacts of U.S. policy changes, and how Southeast Asia is emerging as an important hub for global trade resilience.
Trump’s New Tariff Playbook
U.S. tariff hikes and de minimis rule changes are disrupting traditional supply chains, hitting e-commerce and air freight particularly hard. The suspension of the de minimis rule means more low-value shipments are now subject to duties, increasing costs and complexity for cross-border e-commerce. This has forced many shippers to pivot to B2B2C models to maintain efficiency and reduce regulatory risks.
Vietnam and Southeast Asia: The New Manufacturing Frontier
As U.S.-China tensions rise, Kathy Liu highlights how Vietnam and its Southeast Asia neighbors are stepping up as key manufacturing hubs. Vietnam’s proximity to China and strong economic partnerships makes it an ideal alternative for companies diversifying supply chains. Northern Vietnam, with its efficient cross-border logistics, streamlines equipment and production line movements. Sector-specific shifts are shaping the region: automotive production is moving to Thailand, electronics to Vietnam, and semiconductors to Malaysia, while Indonesia draws in automotive-related businesses. As relocations take place, infrastructure challenges, especially at ports and airports, push shippers toward multimodal solutions. Dimerco addresses these challenges with cross-border trucking from Vietnam to its Guangzhou hub, facilitating smooth air freight connections and reducing transit times and costs.
Shipper Strategies Amid Market Turbulence
Industry veteran Bronson Hsieh highlights how smaller carriers can outperform industry giants by staying agile and focusing on profitability over market share. He warns that high levels of container ship newbuilding deliveries in 2025 could push rates down, especially as some carriers prioritize volume over profits, potentially leading to rate collapses. In past market downturns, smaller carriers maintained stronger margins by targeting niche markets and avoiding rate wars. He also emphasizes the strategic advantage of mid-sized vessels for intra-Asia trade and diversions caused by U.S.-China tensions, allowing carriers to remain flexible amid shifting trade routes. As the industry navigates these shifting dynamics, all eyes are now on the Trans-Pacific Maritime Conference (TPM) – scheduled for the start of March, where key stakeholders will gather to shape the next phase of global trade.
What’s Next for Global Trade
As TPM approaches, The Freight Buyers’ Club host Mike King will join industry leaders in Long Beach, as industry leaders discuss contract negotiations, carrier strategies and other key topics. Dimerco’s CEO, Jeffrey Shih, will be a guest on a panel of industry experts discussing key strategies for navigating tariff shifts, strengthening Asia-Pacific supply chains, and leveraging outsourcing to optimize logistics costs.
How Shippers Can Stay Ahead
As a global 3PL with expertise in the Asia-Pacific region, Dimerco helps businesses navigate uncertainty with tailored logistics solutions, trade compliance expertise, and end-to-end supply chain support. Whether you’re adapting to new U.S. tariffs or exploring Southeast Asia as your next manufacturing hub, Dimerco is positioned to guide you through every step. For more strategic insights and expert logistics solutions, connect with one of our specialists and discover how we can help you strengthen your supply chain for the future.
Stay tuned for more insights as we explore the evolving freight landscape together and check out the latest episodes of The Freight Buyers’ Club podcasts. Subscribe to the podcast for direct access to trade insights, shipping trends, and expert perspectives from industry leaders.