Category: Sea

Uncertain Waters: Securing Ocean Freight Rates

While there’s talk in the market about further pressure on rates, the reality is more complex, with container spot rate indices showing mixed signals last week, suggesting that any softening on key east-west routes might not last. The global supply chain remains unpredictable, and several fa... Read more

Shipping at Risk from $1.5M Port Charge

To combat China’s dominance in shipbuilding and revive the US maritime sector, a sweeping proposal from the Trump administration to penalise container ships built in China has sent shockwaves through the global shipping industry. The policy would levy up to $1.5 million per port call on Chinese... Read more

Sea Freight Market Review

The global ocean freight market is undergoing a period of transition in 2025, influenced by regulatory changes, shifting trade patterns, and evolving carrier alliances. While demand remains strong in key regions, rate volatility persists due to supply chain disruptions and excess capacity. The... Read more

Key Takeaways from TPM25

The 25th anniversary of the Trans-Pacific Maritime (TPM) Conference in Long Beach, California, reaffirmed its position as the premier global forum for senior supply chain executives carriers, and technology providers shaping the future of global trade. This year’s event unfolded against a ba... Read more

Metro expands sustainability initiative for global sea and airfreight services

Metro is taking a bold step forward in its sustainability journey by expanding its environmentally conscious initiatives for global Sea freight and Airfreight services, effective April 1st, 2025. As part of this commitment, Metro will introduce a groundbreaking transparency measure: the total ... Read more

Labour disputes at European ports disrupt container shipping

Trade union action across major European ports, particularly in Rotterdam and France, are causing significant disruptions to container shipping, exacerbating existing supply chain challenges. Strikes at Rotterdam’s Delta II terminal and ongoing industrial action at French ports have created ... Read more

TPM25: Insights, engagement, and the future of shipping

Held in Long Beach, California, the annual TPM conference, hosted by The Journal of Commerce, remains the premier gathering for senior supply chains executives, container shipping lines, and technology providers shaping the future of global trade. With the global container market facing anothe... Read more

Stay Ahead with Metro’s Ocean Freight Market Update

In the ever-changing world of global trade, staying informed is not just an advantage, it’s a critical necessity. That’s why Metro provides the Ocean Freight Market Update, a comprehensive, data-driven report designed to help businesses navigate the complexities of container shipping. Subs... Read more

Ocean freight market report

Global shipping dynamics are shifting, with rates under pressure, 5% growth in global container shipping capacity, and the impact of the US’ new trade policies. The ocean freight market is navigating a complex landscape, marked by operational and regulatory shifts. The Shanghai Containerised... Read more

Trump’s new tariffs could shake the UK and EU automotive sector

New US tariffs on steel, aluminium, and auto parts threaten production costs, trade relationships and market stability, and for UK and EU carmakers, the implications of these policies could be severe, impacting everything from manufacturing costs to supply chain efficiency and trade competitivene... Read more

US and India growth strategies

Recent senior executive visits to the United States and India reinforce Metro’s strategic partnerships, enhance trade opportunities and positioning the company for continued global growth in 2025. With international trade facing shifting policies, evolving supply chain dynamics, and increasi... Read more

Seven supply chain shocks in seven weeks

Just seven weeks into 2025, global supply chains have already faced a whirlwind of challenges. From industrial action to trade barriers and shifting alliances, businesses must stay agile to navigate ongoing disruptions. Here are seven of the most impactful developments so far this year. 1. ... Read more