KERRYCONNECT - AUGUST 2024

28 Aug 2024
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Kerry Connect 2024

Contents
  1. Executive Summary & Business Tip
  2. Market Trend
  3. Spotlight
  4. Ocean Freight Updates
  5. Air Freight Updates
  6. Customs, Inland Transport, Terminal & Regulation Alerts
  7. Logistics Trends

Executive Summary

As we progress through the third quarter of 2024, the container shipping market is experiencing significant volatility due to a series of Black Swan events. Notably, the Houthi rebel attacks have disrupted key global trade routes like the Red Sea and Suez Canal, forcing vessels to reroute and leading to widespread delays and increased spot market freight rates. This volatility has resulted in a projected 4.1% increase in global container throughput for the year, with freight rates rising by 27% in 2024. Despite these challenges, carriers are showing strong recovery, with a forecasted EBIT increase of 81%, highlighting their ability to adapt to the rapidly changing market dynamics.

Looking ahead, geopolitical tensions and an increase in fleet capacity are expected to continue driving uncertainty in the shipping market. The ongoing disruptions in the Red Sea are likely to persist, influencing global freight rates and operational strategies well into 2025. Oceania's trade routes, particularly between Asia and Oceania, have seen robust growth due to eased tariffs and increased demand, further straining shipping capacities. However, this growth also brings opportunities, as evidenced by the significant surge in both southbound and northbound shipments and the anticipated expansion of newbuild contracts.

The Australian airfreight market is showing signs of recovery with a 3% year-on-year growth in imports, despite mixed export performance affected by geopolitical tensions. The recent Iranian airspace closure has added to the operational challenges, causing backlogs at key airports and prompting new restrictions. As airfreight capacity slowly rebounds with more carriers resuming flights, the market remains cautiously optimistic, particularly with potential shifts from ocean to air freight to avoid shipping delays.

Developments in Oceania reflect broader economic challenges, with Australia's growth slowing and New Zealand emerging from a recession with a fragile recovery. Upcoming industrial actions at major ports in India, Australia, the USA, and recently resolved actions in Canada pose further risks to the supply chain, potentially disrupting both ocean and air freight operations. Amid these challenges, the shipping industry continues to emphasize the need for stringent safety measures, particularly following recent incidents, and stresses the importance of agility and adaptability in navigating the evolving global landscape.

 
Business Tip

Plan for Potential Port Strikes and Disruptions: With industrial actions at major global ports on the horizon, including strikes in India, Australia, and the USA, it's essential to plan for potential disruptions in your supply chain. Consider alternative routes and modals, secure bookings early, and stay informed about the latest developments to minimize delays and maintain smooth operations. For suggestions and action plans to get ahead of these challenges, feel free to get in touch.

Kerry Logistics counts with key partnerships with Carriers and can help you navigate these uncertainties with proven experience.

 

Spotlight

We will do whatever it takes to meet the customers' needs

 

Market Trend

The container shipping market is currently facing unprecedented volatility, driven by a series of Black Swan events that have significantly impacted global trade routes. One of the most disruptive factors has been the Houthi rebel attacks at the end of 2023, which forced numerous vessels to reroute away from the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, two of the world's most crucial maritime passages. These unexpected diversions caused far more disruption to liner operations than initially anticipated, leading to widespread delays and uncertainty in the shipping schedules. As a result, the market is now more unpredictable than ever, with demand growth exceeding expectations. The first quarter of 2024 witnessed the fastest growth in 11 quarters, and global container throughput is expected to increase by 4.1% over the year.

However, the impact of these disruptions has been profound. Service patterns at ports have been significantly altered, with port productivity plummeting due to prolonged waiting times outside ports, extended turnaround times, and a surge in spot market freight rates. The growth in the container fleet, projected to rise by 11% this year, adds another layer of complexity to the already volatile market. This increase in fleet capacity, combined with unpredictable demand, has made the market highly susceptible to rapid reversals in forecasts, emphasizing the need for agility and adaptability in operations.

 

Market Adjustments and Economic Impact

Despite the initial shock of the unexpected upturn in spot rates since early May, the market has shown remarkable resilience by adjusting swiftly to the Red Sea diversions. The freight rate has risen by approximately 27% in 2024, driven by a combination of supply chain disruptions and shifts in market dynamics. Carriers have also seen their earnings recover dramatically, with forecasted EBIT for 2024 reaching $50 billion—an 81% increase compared to the previous year. This recovery comes after a challenging period in late 2023 when carriers reported losses for the first time in five years. The renewed profitability indicates that carriers have effectively navigated the disruptions and capitalized on the opportunities presented by the fluctuating market conditions.

The surge in demand for new containerships further illustrates the market's adaptive strategies. Reports suggest that over 100 newbuild contracts are imminent, focusing primarily on medium-to-large-sized vessels ranging from 8,000 TEU to 16,000 TEU. This demand surge is partly attributed to shippers accelerating their shipments as a precautionary measure, potentially leading to a slowdown during the traditional 3Q peak season. The cellular fleet is expected to grow by 11% in 2024, reaching nearly 31 million TEUs by year-end, driven by a net addition of 3.1 million TEUs as newbuild deliveries accelerate to meet the evolving market needs.

 

Future Outlook: Capacity and Geopolitical Influences

Looking ahead, the shipping market's future remains highly uncertain, with several factors influencing its trajectory. The ongoing crisis in the Red Sea continues to impact global shipping lanes, with the diversions expected to last through the first half of 2025, potentially extending another three months before operations normalize. This situation has created a complex environment for carriers, who are simultaneously benefiting from the disruption while facing challenges in managing overcapacity. The recent wave of newbuild contracts suggests that carriers anticipate prolonged instability in the region, driving them to secure additional capacity to navigate these uncertain waters.

Global freight rates are now projected to increase by 27% in 2024, with a further rise of 4% expected in 2025 as elevated spot rates influence contract pricing. This forecast marks a significant shift from earlier predictions of a contraction, highlighting the market's rapid adaptation to changing conditions. However, the broader economic outlook remains cautious. Global growth is expected to hold steady at 2.6% in 2024, slightly improving to an average of 2.7% in 2025-26, well below the 3.1% average seen in the decade before the COVID-19 pandemic. Developing economies are projected to grow at around 4% on average over 2024-25, while growth in low-income economies is expected to accelerate from 3.8% in 2023 to 5% in 2024.

Geopolitical conditions, particularly in the Red Sea, continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the market outlook. A swift resolution to the Houthi attacks could restore more predictable shipping patterns, improving port and terminal efficiency. However, with diversions likely to persist for the foreseeable future, carriers must remain vigilant and flexible to navigate the ongoing challenges. Port congestion and labor issues also remain significant concerns, with operational disruptions leading to increased waiting times, delays, and higher freight rates. As the market continues to adapt to these dynamics, the direction of container shipping remains uncertain, with supply-demand balances and rates heavily dependent on the duration and resolution of these geopolitical tensions.

 

Impact on Global and Regional Trade

The current shipping landscape has far-reaching implications for global and regional trade patterns. In Oceania, trade volumes have seen significant growth, with a 13% year-on-year increase and a projected 9.5% rise in throughput for 2024. The Asia-Oceania trade routes have been particularly robust, with southbound shipments up by 23% and northbound shipments rising by 7% in the first quarter of 2024. The easing of tariffs between Australia and China has also fueled a surge in trade, with Australian exports to China, including wine, rebounding strongly after tariffs were lifted.

Meanwhile, New Zealand has exited a recession but remains economically fragile, with GDP growing by only 0.2% in the most recent quarter following a contraction in the previous period. Despite these challenges, regional trade dynamics continue to evolve, driven by shifting demand patterns, geopolitical developments, and strategic responses from carriers and shippers alike.

As the global shipping industry navigates these turbulent times, staying informed and adaptable will be crucial for stakeholders across the supply chain. The interplay between geopolitical tensions, economic conditions, and operational disruptions will continue to shape the future of the container shipping market, underscoring the importance of resilience and flexibility in an increasingly complex and unpredictable environment.

 

Australian Airfreight Market Shows Signs of Recovery Amidst Challenges

The Australian airfreight market has experienced significant volatility over the past two decades, with five recessionary periods from 2000 to 2024. However, recent data indicates a 3% year-on-year growth in import airfreight, suggesting a return to pre-COVID levels. Export performance has been mixed; after a period of strong growth between 2014 and 2019 driven largely by demand from China, exports have declined due to geopolitical tensions and resulting tariff restrictions. With the current Labor government reopening dialogue with China, there is cautious optimism that export volumes may begin to recover.

On the import side, the rise in low-value shipments, fueled by online shopping trends and the entry of platforms like TEMU from China, has been notable. Most airfreight to and from Australia is transported on passenger aircraft, and as more carriers resume flights to the Australian market, capacity is increasing. The reopening of borders in China and Japan has particularly boosted the number of flights, though overall capacity remains aligned with pre-COVID levels due to insufficient outbound freight loads from Australia. While some major markets are experiencing a downturn in imports and exports against peak levels, there are signs of recovery, especially with the peak period of late 2024 approaching.

Looking ahead, the outlook for Australian airfreight is cautiously optimistic. Growth is expected in both import and export sectors, particularly as shipping delays may temporarily push some cargo to airfreight. However, the market faces several challenges, including the introduction of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), which could increase costs, and the push towards digitalization and AI integration across the industry.

Developments in Oceania

Australia's economic growth has slowed significantly, with unemployment expected to rise further, according to a recent report. The Reserve Bank's efforts to control inflation, which currently stands at 3.6%, through two years of interest rate hikes appear to have negatively impacted both employment and economic expansion. Deloitte's employment forecast highlights that the economy is nearing stagnation, experiencing its slowest growth since the early 1990s recession. The report points to declining GDP, reduced retail spending, and a rise in business insolvencies as clear indicators of this slowdown. The retail sector, which experienced the largest decline in employment by 0.8% during the 2023-24 financial year, is projected to see a further decrease of 2% this year.

In New Zealand, retail sales fell by 1.2% in the second quarter of 2024 compared to the previous quarter, which had already been revised down to a 0.5% growth, falling short of market expectations of a 1% decline. This drop continues the downward trend in retail activity observed over the past two years, with eleven out of fifteen retail sectors reporting lower sales volumes compared to the first quarter. The most significant drops were in electrical and electronic goods (-6.0%), motor vehicles and parts (-2.7%), food and beverage services (-1.9%), and clothing, footwear, and personal accessories (-4.1%). On a yearly basis, retail sales were down 3.6% in the June quarter, following a 2.4% decrease in the previous quarter.

Regarding Trade, the Oceania region reported a 13% year-on-year increase, with projected throughput growth of 9.5% for 2024. The Asia-Oceania trade saw a strong rebound in the first quarter of 2024, with southbound shipments increasing by 23% and northbound shipments rising by 7%. Additionally, the spot rate benchmark for shipments from South China to Australia rose by 23% month-on-month in May.

Australia's trade with China has reached new heights following the removal of tariffs. In the first quarter, Asian exports to Oceania surged by 23.3% year-on-year, while exports from Oceania back to Asia increased by 7.4% over the same period. Following the tariff lift in April, Australia exported A$86 million worth of wine to China, compared to A$1.2 billion in annual wine exports before the tariffs were implemented.

New Zealand has emerged from its recession, although the economic recovery remains fragile. The country's GDP grew by 0.2% in the latest quarter, following a 0.1% decline in the previous quarter. However, the economy has only shown growth in two of the last six quarters, indicating a slow and uneven recovery.

Forecast VolumeForecast Growth

Disruption Warning: Upcoming Port Strikes and Potential Disruptions

Industrial actions at major global ports and rail networks are emerging as significant threats to Oceania’s ocean supply chain, with potential spillovers into air freight as businesses scramble to maintain delivery schedules. Strikes in India, Australia, the USA, and recently resolved actions in Canada could lead to substantial disruptions, including cargo congestion, delays, and increased shipping costs.

Key Takeaways:

  • India: Indefinite dock workers’ strike starting August 28th, with potential delays exacerbated by ongoing wage disputes.
  • Australia: A 48-hour pilot strike at Fremantle Port has occurred, causing expected delays.
  • USA: A significant dock workers’ strike is possible from October 1st, with major supply chain disruptions anticipated.
  • Canada: The lockout of rail workers by Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) began on August 22nd but has ended following government intervention. Both companies are preparing to resume operations, although delays and cargo backlogs are anticipated as services normalize.

Overview:

  • India: Dock workers at India’s 12 major ports are set to strike indefinitely starting August 28th due to unresolved wage and pension disputes dating back to 2021. The strike is expected to cause severe disruptions in cargo handling, exacerbating congestion at Asian and European ports and affecting global trade​.
  • Australia: On August 18th, port pilots at Fremantle commenced a 48-hour strike demanding a $20,000 pay increase. This action could lead to anything from minor delays to a complete port shutdown, significantly impacting supply chains and raising costs for businesses.
  • USA: A potential strike involving 85,000 dock workers at the East and Gulf Ports of the USA is looming, set to begin on October 1st. A one-day strike could create a backlog of 4-6 days, while a week-long strike might take up to six weeks to recover from, potentially impacting the supply chain into 2025.
  • Canada: The Canadian government intervened to end a national rail stoppage after both CN and CPKC locked out their workers on August 22nd due to failed labor negotiations. The lockouts have been lifted, and operations are set to resume under existing collective agreements while binding arbitration is imposed to reach new deals. Despite the resolution, the recent lockout has created delays and impacted industries reliant on rail transportation for their supply chains, particularly in agriculture, automotive, and manufacturing. The disruption has affected both Canadian and U.S. supply chains due to halted cross-border rail shipments​

If you would like to discuss potential workarounds to these disruptions or explore alternative logistics solutions, please get in touch with us.

Ocean Freight Updates

KerryConnect-Sea Freight

  • GRI and PSS notices from Carriers on 1st of September 2024.
  • OOCL Demurrage & Detention 10 days free combined at POD with immediate effect.
  • Carriers booking utilization sits at 100% to both AU and NZ. Space is full for earlier September and cargo keeps getting rolled. We suggest placing bookings at least 3-4 weeks in advance.
  • COSCO shipments to AU Transshipment via Singapore keep waiting times around 2-3 weeks in SIN due to renewed congestion, under their FIFO operational policy.
  • ANL continues facing equipment shortages from CN/SEA, reviewing on vessel-by-vessel basis.
  • MSC Suspended Capricorn and Kiwi Express services with last sailing on August 20th, 2024.

Market Trends August

GRI for two consecutive months

Market instability is the new normal in the shipping industry. Shipping costs continue to soar in the lead up to the Golden Week as demand for space increases and schedule instability is still impacting overall capacity.

We are seeing further rate increases for September with carriers announcing General Rate Increases (GRI) between USD 300 to USD 500 per TEU, with MSC increasing their rates by USD1,000 per TEU.

Singapore congestion has eased off; however, the situation is still dynamic and can change at any time. The transshipment delays have reduced to an average of about 2 weeks in Singapore.

Some carriers continue to experience insufficient equipment supply in China which is also impacting bookings.

You can see our GRI snapshot for September here.

 
Terminal 3 Explosion in Ningbo – DG Class 5.2 Precautions

On August 9, 2024, a fire incident occurred on the vessel YM Mobility/079W, operated by Yang Ming, at Ningbo Port’s Bei Lun Terminal #3. Preliminary investigations suggest that a reefer container, which was improperly used to carry dangerous goods (Class 5 – High-Temperature Flammable Material) as a substitute for a dry container, may have been the cause. The explosion took place during the loading process at Ningbo Port.

Following the explosion, Bei Lun Terminal #3 was temporarily closed but has gradually resumed operations as of the early morning of August 12th. Despite the significance of Bei Lun as a major terminal in Ningbo Port, the incident has had minimal impact on overall port operations.

As a result of the incident, several shipping lines, including OOCL, COSCO, ZIM, PIL, and TSL, have already suspended acceptance of DG Class 5.2, and others may follow suit.

We strongly remind all parties to exercise extreme caution when handling the import and export of dangerous goods. It is critical to avoid any concealment of such goods.

 
Ocean Freight Snapshot (up to August 31st, 2024)

Check our snapshot for a quick glance on space, rate, equipment and transit times for Oceania

Snapshot Legend

Ocean Freight Snapshots August 2024

 

 

Air Freight Updates

Recent data from WorldACD Market Data indicates a notable decline in air cargo tonnages during mid-August, primarily due to a typhoon in Northeast Asia and national holidays across several European countries. For the week of August 12-18 (week 33), global air cargo volumes fell by 7% compared to the previous week. The most significant declines were from the Asia Pacific region, which saw a 9% drop, and Europe, which experienced an 11% decrease.

WorldACD's analysis, which covers over 450,000 weekly transactions, reveals that nearly 70% of the reduction in Asia Pacific cargo volumes (-6 percentage points of the -9% drop) was due to a 47% decline in cargo from Japan, where a typhoon caused numerous flight cancellations. South Korea also saw a reduction in flights, although to a lesser extent. Similarly, around 80% of the 11% decline in European cargo volumes (-9 percentage points of the -11% drop) was linked to reduced shipments from countries observing the August 15 holiday, particularly in France, Italy, Spain, and parts of Germany and Belgium.

Adjusting for these specific disruptions, the overall decrease in global cargo volumes would be closer to 2% week-on-week, rather than the reported 7%, indicating a mild global slowdown in air cargo activity compared to July's stronger performance.

 

Iranian Air Space Closure

Due to the additional costs and risks arising from the current situation in Iran, Iraq and Lebanon, Qatar Airways introduced a temporary Insurance premium for shipments to and from these countries with effect of 20 August 2024.

Additionally, due to the closure of Iranian airspace and the current situation resulting in a significant cargo backlog at Singapore Changi Airport (SIN), Singapore Airlines is experiencing substantial offloads of Europe-bound cargo. As a temporary measure to manage this backlog, the airline has suspended new bookings for cargo destined for London Gatwick (LGW) and London Heathrow (LHR).

Additionally, an embargo is currently in place for certain cargo types on flights from SIN to Europe until further notice. These include:

  1. Dangerous Goods (DGs), including items without a Dangerous Goods Declaration (ELI, ELM, REQ, RRE, ICE).
  2. Live animals, including fish.
  3. All types of perishables (PER, PES, PEF, PEM).
  4. Pharmaceuticals (PIL).

Please be aware that these restrictions are specific to flights to Europe and do not apply to those terminating in other regions, including the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent.

 

Singapore Airlines to Launch Flights at Western Sydney Airport

Singapore Airlines will be the first international airline to fly from Western Sydney Airport when it opens in 2026. This decision strengthens the $5.3 billion project's plans, which already include domestic services from Qantas and Jetstar.

The Western Sydney Airport is designed to operate 24/7 without a curfew and features a 3.7-kilometre runway capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Airbus A380. This development provides a new option for airlines, diversifying the choices for both carriers and passengers and reducing the monopoly of existing airports.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Transport Minister Catherine King are set to confirm the agreement, aiming to boost competition and lower airfares. This move is expected to enhance travel options and improve services for passengers, marking a significant step forward for Sydney's aviation future.

Sydney Airport

 

Aviation White Paper

The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (DITRDCA) has unveiled its much-anticipated Aviation White Paper, outlining strategic policies designed to shape the future of Australia's aviation industry up to 2050. This landmark document aims to steer the sector's growth and foster innovation over the coming decades.

Key Highlights

The 240-page report lays out a detailed roadmap featuring 56 policy initiatives. These initiatives were developed following extensive consultations on the Aviation Green Paper, engaging with the aviation industry, state and territory governments, and the broader Australian community. The initiatives are organized around ten main focus areas:

  • Enhancing the passenger experience
  • Fostering a competitive and efficient aviation sector
  • Building a skilled, secure, and productive workforce
  • Promoting aviation’s role in achieving net zero emissions
  • Strengthening connections with regional Australia
  • Revitalizing General Aviation
  • Adopting a balanced approach to airport planning and noise management
  • Ensuring world-class safety, security, and airspace regulation
  • Supporting the development of new aviation technologies
  • Strengthening Australia's global aviation connections

This White Paper sets a visionary path for the aviation sector, aiming to drive growth while addressing critical challenges and opportunities.

You can check the relevant documents here:

 

Qantas Freight Expands Services to Hong Kong and New Zealand with New Schedules

Qantas Freight has announced an expansion of its trans-Tasman and Hong Kong routes, leveraging its all-Airbus freighter fleet to increase capacity and frequency. With the recent addition of a sixth A321P2F aircraft, the company is launching new schedules aimed at enhancing service reliability and meeting growing customer demand.

Increased Capacity to Hong Kong

To accommodate increased demand, Qantas Freight has introduced additional widebody services between Australia and Hong Kong, now offering three weekly flights. For the first time, a new direct service from Perth to Hong Kong will run every Friday, providing direct shipment options for Western Australian customers. Additionally, Sydney to Hong Kong flights have been increased to twice weekly, operating every Wednesday and Sunday, enhancing connectivity from both the east and west coasts of Australia.

Expanded Trans-Tasman Services to New Zealand

Starting from 26 August 2024, Qantas Freight will expand its trans-Tasman freighter services to five weekly rotations between Sydney, Christchurch, and Auckland. This includes four rotations operated by the fuel-efficient A321P2F aircraft, with the addition of a new weekend service, and a weekly A332P2F widebody service on Thursdays for larger cargo loads. Furthermore, from 9 September 2024, a new A321P2F service will depart from Melbourne every Tuesday, offering more capacity for southern states.

Air Freight Snapshot (up to August 31st, 2024)

Snapshot Legend

Airfreight Snapshots August 2024

 

Customs, Inland Transport, Terminal and Regulation Updates

Container truck at port
 
Qube NZ's New Vehicle Booking System

Starting September 1, 2024, Qube NZ (an Empty Container Yard operator in Auckland) will roll out a new Vehicle Booking System (VBS) called Inbound Connect, announced on August 1, 2024. One of the key updates involves a new requirement for transport companies to prepay for all VBS timeslot bookings.

Additionally, any disputes related to incorrect charges, such as penalties for early arrivals, late arrivals, or no-shows, must be addressed at the time they occur. This change places a greater financial responsibility on carriers, which may result in additional fees being passed on to customers to cover these costs.

The following depots and shipping lines are included under the Qube NZ management:

Depots:

  • Qube, Neilson Street
  • Qube, Savill Drive

Shipping Lines:

  • Cosco Shipping Lines
  • Hapag-Lloyd
  • Maersk
  • Ocean Network Express
  • Orient Overseas Container Line

 

BMSB Risk Season

China and the Republic of South Korea have been added to the BMSB target risk countries list for heightened vessel surveillance only. RoRo vessels that berth, load or tranship cargo from China and/or Republic of South Korea will be subject to heightened vessel surveillance, and risk management measures where necessary.

You can read in depth on this subject on our available guide here.

 
Changes in the HCI Scheme in Australia

The Highly Compliant Importer (HCI) Scheme is a reduced inspection intervention scheme. There is no application process to qualify for the HCI scheme, the Agriculture Import Management System (IMS) Q-ruler will automatically monitor an importer’s compliance history and automatically place eligible importers onto the scheme.

From August 7th, 2024, the scope of the HCI scheme has been expanded to include extra commodities, including New Tyers, Aircraft and Aircraft parts and Used Machinery and Machinery Parts with their corresponding Tariffs.

You can read more on the HCI Scheme on the DAFF website by clicking here.

 

Industrial Action at Port of Fremantle

The Port of Fremantle received notification that Vessel Traffic Service Officers and Small Craft Personnel, covered under the Marine Services Enterprise Agreement, planned to undertake a 48-hour protected industrial action starting at 5:30 AM on Sunday, August 18.

Vessel cargo and port logistics operations proceeded as scheduled, with no anticipated disruption due to the industrial action. However, there may have been some impact on ship movements to and from berths.

Fremantle Ports is aware of the importance of minimizing disruptions to trade and remains committed to resolving this matter amicably through respectful and collaborative discussions. The industrial action was approved following a Protected Action Ballot Order (PABO) in late June, with notice given three days in advance, as required.

 

Simplified Customs Process to Boost Australia-Indonesia Trade

Australia and Indonesia have signed an Authorised Economic Operator Mutual Recognition Arrangement (AEO MRA) to simplify customs procedures and enhance trade between the two countries. The agreement was signed by Australian Border Force Commissioner Michael Outram and Indonesian Director General of Customs and Excise Askolani at a meeting in Canberra on August 7, 2024. This partnership aims to provide Australian Trusted Traders (ATT) with faster and more secure access to the Indonesian market, one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

The new arrangement, Australia’s 11th of its kind, is expected to strengthen economic ties and improve cooperation on trade facilitation and enforcement. Outram noted the importance of this agreement in boosting trade efficiency and security, benefiting both nations' economies. The deal follows Indonesia's significant role as Australia’s 13th largest trading partner and 9th largest export market in 2022-23, with bilateral trade valued at $26.2 billion.

Both countries have established similar agreements with other global partners, promoting smoother trade processes under the World Customs Organization's SAFE Framework. Australian businesses involved in international trade are encouraged to apply for the ATT program to benefit from these streamlined customs procedures.

Logistics Trends

  • A new DP World report reveals 82% of supply chain professionals believe sustainability enhances financial performance, with increased prioritisation and resource allocation for sustainability influencing supplier selection and strategies.
  • CargoKite and Lomar Shipping’s Lomarlabs are developing crewless, sail-powered micro-ships with AI for optimal routing, aiming to address maritime decarbonisation with low-carbon, sail-based technology.
  • Barcodes, celebrating 50 years, are being replaced by 2D barcodes for better supply chain traceability and consumer engagement, supported by GS1 Digital Link and initiatives like Sunrise 2027.