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The maritime market at the end of 2024 reflects both challenges and opportunities. Uncertainty from potential US East Coast port strikes, tariff hikes, and alliance reshuffles adds pressure on global trade, including Malaysia, as disruptions in major trade routes can affect supply chains worldwide. However, ocean carriers have stabilised freight rates above Q2 levels, offering a positive outlook for 2025 negotiations and maintaining strong EBIT margins.

For Malaysia, a key regional trade hub, these trends highlight the importance of adapting to global changes. Professional logisticians can:

- Strengthen Supply Chain Flexibility: Plan ahead to manage delays and costs caused by events like strikes or tariff changes.

- Use Market Data Effectively: Predict demand surges, such as those before the Chinese New Year, to optimise shipping schedules.

- Build Strong Carrier Partnerships: Negotiate better contracts and explore diverse routing options to handle alliance reshuffles.

- You may refer to this paper, entitled “How Strategic Alliance Affects the Supply Chain Performance of Malaysian Ocean Carriers?” (Link: http://www.gbmrjournal.com/pdf/v15n2/V15N2-5.pdf) (ERA-indexed) 

By staying proactive and well-prepared, professional logisticians can help Malaysia remain competitive in global trade.

- Commented by Dato’ Logistician Chang Kah Loon 拿督曾家麟教授, FCILT, FLogM (Chief Executive of AK Academy 勤 略 學 院 | Director of AK Shipping 勤 略 航 運 | Professor of Practice in Logistics | Senior Logistician | Logistics Mediator) 

- From his page: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/15m5cxkgSx/?mibextid=wwXIfr