Category: Foodstuffs

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

ICS2 and ELO: Preparing for the Next Phase of EU Border Compliance

As of 1st April, the European Union’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) entered its final implementation phase; a critical milestone for businesses moving goods into the EU.  Designed to enhance the safety and security of EU-bound shipments, ICS2 is now live across all transport modes, includi... 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

Air Freight Market Review

The global air freight market in February and early March reflected moderate year-on-year (YoY) growth, with total worldwide tonnages up 5% in February and 2% higher YoY in early March. However, market dynamics remain volatile, influenced by shifting trade policies, geopolitical factors, and e... 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

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

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

Uncertainty grows as US tariffs target China

While last-minute negotiations resulted in a temporary reprieve for Canadian and Mexican imports, President Trump’s new tariffs on Chinese goods from the 4th February have already triggered retaliation, adding further pressure to international supply chains. US tariffs on Canadian and Mexica... Read more