The Lunar New Year, which begins on January 29, 2025, is expected to impact global shipping trends, although the impact may not be as large as in previous years, according to Maersk's December European market update. The company said many businesses have adopted "planned resilience" strategies by spreading shipping activity across the year. The first months of 2025 will bring unique challenges and opportunities for the shipping industry. The Lunar New Year holiday typically has a major impact on global shipping as factories in China shut down across the board, with production slowing down three weeks before and resuming in mid-February. Businesses typically rush to ship goods before China goes on holiday, pushing up freight rates. “However, questions remain about the extent of the impact of Lunar New Year on transportation next year, as businesses proactively move goods out early throughout the year as part of a ‘planned resistance’ strategy,” the update noted. In 2025, Maersk will make major changes to its network, ending its 10-year 2M alliance with Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and forming a new partnership called Gemini with Hapag-Lloyd. Scheduled to launch in February next year, the “Network of the Future” will adopt an innovative “hub and spoke” model, aiming for 90% service reliability compared to the current industry average of 53%. A key part of the change will be replacing Felixstowe with London Gateway as the main UK port for Asia-Europe trade. “As we enter 2025, we are seeing significant operational adjustments at European ports,” Maersk’s market update said, with performance diverging across key locations. While Bremerhaven remains stable, ports such as Rotterdam, Antwerp and Hamburg are experiencing increased berthing density, leading to a need to expedite cargo clearance. Labor issues in the US could also have spillover effects on European shipping, with talks between the International Dockworkers Association (ILA) and the Maritime Union of America running until January 15, 2025. Talks have been hampered by automation initiatives, with the risk of strikes threatening to disrupt traditional shipping routes. As part of its end-to-end logistics strategy, Maersk reported strong growth in air freight, with global spot rates increasing by 25% compared to 2023. While Europe maintained its position as the top import destination, routes from the Middle East and South Asia recorded a significant increase of 73%. Weather conditions remain a key factor for shipping operations in Europe, with Adriatic ports experiencing strong winds and similar conditions forecast across the continent. In another development, China has implemented new regulations from December 1, 2024, controlling the export of dual-use items. The new Export Control List identifies about 700 goods and technologies that have potential for both civilian and military applications. This new regulatory framework integrates with existing export control rules to simplify licensing, standardize controls, and enhance oversight of high-tech industries such as semiconductors and artificial intelligence. Companies can avoid penalties and maintain smooth operations by taking proactive steps to comply with more stringent regulations.