As Q2 begins, the global supply chain is once again navigating a convergence of challenges—sharp freight rate declines, intensifying geopolitical pressures, and regulatory interventions shaping the competitive landscape.The Drewry World Container Index (WCI) has now fallen for nine straight weeks, down 45.6% since early January. While still above pre-pandemic benchmarks, the rapid slide has triggered a flurry of rate restoration attempts, with major carriers announcing April surcharges. Whether these stick remains to be seen, but oversupply and softening demand—especially into Australia—continue to apply downward pressure.On the regulatory front, the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC) has released its Statement of Issues regarding DP World's proposed acquisition of Silk Logistics, strongly echoing the competition concerns raised by Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) and the Australian Peak Shippers Association (APSA).At the heart of the matter: the risks of vertical integration, market concentration, and preferential treatment across stevedoring and landside logistics. This merger risks distorting fair competition and must be viewed as a tipping point for Australia's container logistics sector.Meanwhile, international trade eyes are fixed firmly on the United States, with "Tariff Day" looming on 2 April. New auto tariffs and the possible expiration of tariff exemptions threaten to reshape trans-Pacific trade flows and increase cost volatility. Additional levies on Chinese-built vessels and low-value E-commerce are already rattling logistics operators and creating uncertainty for Australian exporters relying on U.S. market access.This edition delivers detailed insights into rate movements, capacity updates, carrier announcements, and shifting political undercurrents—from the Red Sea crisis and U.S. tariff escalation to vertical integration concerns here at home.As always, our focus remains on keeping you informed, prepared, and positioned to navigate this fast-evolving global trade environment.For the full report, please click HERE (FTA/APSA MEMBER LOGIN REQUIRED)Tom Jensen - General Manager Freight Policy & Operations - FTA / APSACopyright © 2025 Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) Pty Ltd, All rights reserved.