The Freight Debate is where industry disruptors and innovators collide.
Each episode, we challenge the status quo, explore bold ideas, and break down the biggest shifts shaping ocean and air logistics. From tackling market volatility and pricing transparency to uncovering the tech and trends redefining global trade, we bring real talk, real insights, and real solutions. With expert insights and fresh perspectives, this is the podcast for those who don’t just navigate change—they drive it.
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The Freight Debate is where industry disruptors and innovators collide.
Each episode, we challenge the status quo, explore bold ideas, and break down the biggest shifts shaping ocean and air logistics. From tackling market volatility and pricing transparency to uncovering the tech and trends redefining global trade, we bring real talk, real insights, and real solutions. With expert insights and fresh perspectives, this is the podcast for those who don’t just navigate change—they drive it.
In this eye-opening episode of The Freight Debate, hosts Philip Hennessey and Emily Stausbøll break down the biggest logistics news shaking the global supply chain—most notably the U.S.-China tariffs and the ongoing Red Sea conflict. The U.S.-China tariffs, having dropped dramatically from 145% to 30%, headline a turbulent period for international trade, prompting both hope and confusion across the industry. The U.S.-China tariffs may offer temporary relief for shippers, but Emily cautions listeners not to be overly optimistic: a 30% tariff is still significant, especially when stacked on prior tariffs.
The discussion explores how shippers are adapting to the new tariff landscape—front-loading cargo, rerouting through Canada, and exploring bonded warehouses to gain a competitive edge. Xeneta customer data reveals a 50% surge in China-to-U.S. bookings following the announcement, signaling a short-term spike in demand and freight rates.
But what comes next? Emily and Phil project that this early “peak season” could be followed by a demand drop-off, with freight rates likely to collapse unless carriers strategically manage capacity or pivot routes. They also warn of the long-term implications for procurement teams, who now must play 3D chess to mitigate unpredictability in supply chains.
The second half of the episode shifts focus to the Red Sea conflict and its ripple effects on shipping. While a ceasefire between the U.S. and the Houthi militia has been declared, skepticism remains. Major carriers like Maersk and MSC are hesitant to reroute through the Red Sea, citing safety and operational complexity. Emily explains that even if the region stabilizes, the influx of capacity could flood global trade lanes and push carriers into a loss-making position—mirroring Q4 2023 trends.
The hosts also discuss strategic shifts in sourcing and routing, as exemplified by companies shifting production from China to Vietnam to minimize tariff exposure. The episode closes with a candid assessment of how these shifts influence contract negotiations, index-linked freight deals, and the future of procurement.
This must-listen conversation arms freight professionals with real-time insights, strategies, and predictions to help them navigate a volatile landscape. Whether you're managing shipping logistics, overseeing procurement, or just trying to stay ahead in a fast-changing market, this episode delivers the tools and clarity needed to move forward with confidence.
The Freight Debate
The Freight Debate is where industry disruptors and innovators collide.
Each episode, we challenge the status quo, explore bold ideas, and break down the biggest shifts shaping ocean and air logistics. From tackling market volatility and pricing transparency to uncovering the tech and trends redefining global trade, we bring real talk, real insights, and real solutions. With expert insights and fresh perspectives, this is the podcast for those who don’t just navigate change—they drive it.
