The Veson Nautical Shipping Market Outlook for Q2 2025 highlights the significant uncertainties facing the global shipping industry. The potential for proposed tariffs in the United States raises concerns about countermeasures that could affect international trade and contribute to prolonged inflation. Additionally, China’s fragile economic recovery presents further challenges due to its essential role as a demand driver in the global market.
This precarious situation could be exacerbated by trade wars, especially as China’s economy relies heavily on exports. The forecast provides insights into various sectors, including tankers, bulkers, containers, and gas. In the tanker segment, the market is likely to remain volatile due to fluctuating oil prices and compliance issues within OPEC+.
While the demand for ton-miles may be sustained by alternative oil supplies to Europe, ongoing geopolitical tensions impact layering market dynamics. Ordering activity for tankers saw a significant rise in 2024 but has since slowed down in 2025, with newbuilding prices still elevated. For bulkers, supply growth is projected to be limited, leading to a temporary oversupply in 2025.
China’s mineral imports remained strong last year; however, weak domestic demand hampers overall growth. A shift to longer shipping routes due to geopolitical tensions has slightly increased bulker ton-miles. In the container segment, TEU demand growth is expected to stabilize, with freight rates anticipated to decline in 2025 due to increased vessel supply.
A trend toward Ultra Large Container Vessels (ULCVs) continues as New-Panamax orders decrease. Lastly, in the gas sector, steady growth in LPG production is forecasted in the U.S. Despite some production cuts in the Middle East, exports remain strong.
However, overall demand from the petrochemical industry remains a concern due to overcapacity and softness in the market. In summary, while the shipping industry faces significant challenges, there are areas of potential growth that could support recovery.