Global Trade Wars Disrupt Transport Flows, Industry Must Adapt: ITF Chief

Global trade wars and rising geopolitical tensions are significantly disrupting transport flows, compelling the industry to adapt, said Kim Young-tae, Secretary General of the International Transport Forum (ITF), during the 2025 ITF Summit in Leipzig. He highlighted that tariffs and uncertainties, especially in key regions like the Red Sea, are shifting the nature and routes of transported goods. A Drewry report forecasts a 1% drop in global container shipping volume in 2025 due to U.S. trade policies, including recent 25% tariffs on steel and automobiles. Kim emphasized that these disruptions impact global supply and demand, urging the transport industry to become more resilient. The ITF is also monitoring climate and trade shifts to shape future projections. The summit, attended by leaders from over 80 countries, included South Korea’s efforts on EV transition and public transport. Kim also noted AI policy standards as key to the sector’s evolution.