French Shipping Leader Optimistic About US-China Agreement Amid Freight Market Decline

By Francois de Beaupuy
May 12, 2025 (Bloomberg) – Rodolphe Saade, the CEO of CMA CGM SA, one of the largest container shipping companies globally, expressed optimism about a recent ceasefire in the trade tensions between the U.S. and China. “This is a positive advancement for us,” Saade remarked during a session at the French Senate on monday. “As this crisis began, we’ve seen our shipments to the U.S. drop by half.”

CMA CGM and its competitors like A.P. Moller-Maersk A/S have felt critically important impacts from President Trump’s shift towards protectionism in trade policies.

On Monday, leaders from both economic powerhouses announced a temporary reduction in tariffs aimed at easing hostilities and fostering dialogue for a more comprehensive trade agreement over the next three months. This pause could provide much-needed relief to businesses affected by ongoing disputes.

In light of these developments, it’s worth considering how global shipping dynamics are shifting beyond just these two nations. As a notable exmaple, countries like India are emerging as new players in international logistics due to their growing manufacturing capabilities and strategic geographic locations.As we navigate through these changes in global trade relations, it’s essential for companies to adapt quickly and explore new markets while keeping an eye on evolving policies that could impact their operations.

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