Intra-Asia Trade Strategies: Navigating Uncertainty & Growth

Global trade is facing a period of profound uncertainty. From shifting tariff policies and geopolitical tensions to climate-induced disruptions, the landscape is increasingly volatile. As a result, businesses across the Asia-Pacific region are rethinking their growth strategies – diversifying beyond traditional markets while prioritising supply chain resilience and flexibility.

In such a dynamic environment, what role can your logistics partner play in building a supply chain that’s not just reactive, but resilient? What logistics solutions can turn unpredictability into opportunity?

This was the central theme at GCA Logistics & Services Summit 2025 in Hangzhou, where over 120 customers logistics professionals and business leaders from 39 countries joined industry experts from the industry. The event served as a powerful platform to unpack the complexities of today’s trade environment and explore forward-looking strategies and unlock growth in a rapidly evolving world.

Supply chains have always been complex, but with the added complexity of trade today, it has never been more important to work with experts that can give you the needed tools and resilience in every aspect of your supply chain. Silvia Ding, Area Managing Director, Greater China Area underscored this at the event, saying “Supply chains are about connecting the dot. It starts with aligned understanding of our customers across their supply chains, origin and destinations, in home markets and overseas, current and future.” 

A swift response to shifting demands on intra-Asia trade

The recently concluded GCA Logistics & Services Summit 2025 saw industry leaders come together to find effective solutions for the evolving challenges faced by businesses across the Asia-Pacific.

The event’s theme of ‘Be Ready to Connect and Breakthrough’, underscored the urgency the world is seeing of the need to of steeringsteer through a trade environment that’s no longer linear, but complex and layered. Across expert sessions and insightful discussions, a clear key message stood out: integration isn’t optional anymore -, it’s essential for both business stability and long-term success.

Key takeaways from the event:

• Macroeconomic forces reshaping trade: A deep dive into how global economic shifts are influencing Asia-Pacific trade flows and what businesses must do to stay ahead.
• Integrated logistics as a strategic lever: The critical role of end-to-end logistics integration in navigating tariffs, mitigating disruptions and unlocking agility.
• New growth frontiers: Emerging market opportunities in Mekong, South-East Asia, Mexico, Panama and beyond. 
• Support for global expansion: The need to provide more comprehensive support for Asian companies to expand their operations in global markets.

Flexibility and resilience for intra-Asia trade and beyond

The global economy is entering an uncertain chapter. According to The Economist Intelligence Unit (May 2025), real global GDP growth is expected to fall to 1.9% in 2025 – the lowest since 2020. Research points to strong influences coming from,- international policies, stalled trade agreements and rising geopolitical tensions.

At the same time, trade routes within Asia and between Asia and Africa are gaining importance, driven by growing population and rapid urban development. As a result, companies across Asia are rethinking their supply chains, with special focus on logistics integration.

This is where working with an integrated supply chain partner is key to bringing more stability to swiftly adapt to changing demands across the Asian market and beyond, you need reliable connectivity and end-to-end solutions that work for your business needs. Your logistics partner should offer you a robust network of ocean, inland and air solutions around the globe, offering resilience and flexibility for your every operational need.

Preparing intra-Asia trade for success in an uncertain future

Looking for more in-depth insights and expert guidance to on how to overcome current challenges to trade? In the e-book, ‘Beyond Borders: How Maersk Empowers Asian Expansion Amid Global Uncertainty’, you’ll find more information on what the key forces are that are shaping global trade today, and what actionable strategies Asian brands can employ to thrive in an ever more unpredictable world.

The e-book dives into how leading Asian companies, especially from China, Korea and Vietnam are actively pursuing diversified growth strategies. They’re moving beyond traditional markets to tap into opportunities across Latin America, North Europe and intra-Asia, while simultaneously managing risks through supply chain resilience and nearshoring.

Key topics featured:

• Why 2025 is a pivotal moment for global expansion.
• How Asian brands are navigating customs, cost pressures and logistics complexity.
• How integrated logistics solutions combine global reach with local precision.
• Regional playbooks tailored for Southeast Asia, the Mekong region, Mexico, Latin America, Europe and Greater China.

The e-book is a blueprint for how Asian exporters can unlock international growth through strategic logistics planning.