Global Insights

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and US President Donald Trump are set to sign a trade agreement at the end of January 2026. PHOTO: REUTERS The Indonesian government has firmly dismissed concerns that an upcoming trade agreement with the United States could compromise national sovereignty, as discussions continue toward a deal expected to be finalised early next year. Officials clarified that the negotiations are focused on strengthening trade cooperation and improving m

Why This Matters for Shipping from Bali Government of Shandong Global trade is expected to reach a record USD 35 trillion in 2025, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The milestone reflects continued growth in international trade volumes, driven by stronger demand for goods and services across key global markets. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and logistical challenges in certain regions, global cargo movement remains resilient

Neoliner Origin aims to cut its greenhouse gas emissions by 80% compared with an equivalent diesel-powered cargo ship. Photograph: Arthur Jacobs/Neoline A major shift in maritime transport is taking shape with the maiden transatlantic voyage of the Neoliner Origin, a new-generation cargo vessel designed to operate primarily on wind power. Developed by French company Neoline, the 136-metre ship features two semi-rigid carbon-fibre sails supported by a diesel-electric backup en

Shipping containers are seen docked at a port in Manila on April 8, 2025. Jam Sta Rosa/AFP/Getty Images In a recent development, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a trade agreement with the Philippines that introduces a 19% tariff on Philippine exports to the U.S., while U.S. goods entering the Philippines would be exempt from tariffs. Although this deal focuses on U.S.–Philippine trade, it underscores a broader trend in Southeast Asia: shifting tariff policies, tr

A Major Opportunity for Exporters Shipping from Bali Maros Sefcovic Photographer: Stefan Wermuth/Bloomberg The European Union and Indonesia have signed a landmark trade agreement that will eliminate tariffs on nearly all goods—a historic step expected to boost exports, streamline trade, and open new opportunities for businesses across the archipelago. For Bali-based exporters, this marks a significant moment. As tariffs are lifted on 98.5% of product lines, shipping from Bali

Shipping containers are seen docked at a port in Manila on April 8, 2025. Jam Sta Rosa/AFP/Getty In the latest shift in global trade...

Unloading activities as seen at the New Priok Container Terminal One in Jakarta on July 1, 2025. (Antara Photo/Fauzan) Indonesia and the...

Despite a broader global decline in container shipping rates, the cost of importing goods into Australia is climbing. Freight rates for...

Recent tariff hikes and shifting trade policies by the U.S. have started reshaping global logistics. While most headlines focus on...

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime corridor between Oman and Iran, is one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints....