Imports into Africa could be impacted by changes currently taking place in global shipping industry, the August 2025 Asia-Pacific Freight Market Report by Taiwans Diversified Merchandise Corporation Dimerco has found.
According to the island states leading freight forwarder, air and sea freight across the region are facing supply chain impacts from changing weather patterns, causing inclement conditions, compounded by proposed US tariffs.
Dimerco reports that this development is highly relevant to Africa, as many nations on the continent import goods from Asia.
These markets also utilise the same trade routes and ports as exporters in the Asia-Pacific.
Consequently, any changes to global shipping patterns can have a knock-on effect on African supply chains.
Dimerco stresses that from Friday, 1 August, the United States will begin implementing new tariffs on goods from 25 countries, many of which are in Asia. These taxes are increasing the cost of goods and are prompting changes in how companies transport products. In anticipation of the higher tariffs, many firms accelerated exports in July, leading to a dramatic front-loaded surge in shipping activity.
However, this surge has now subsided, and the market is beginning to recalibrate around anticipated issues such as a shortage of containers, cancelled sailings and fluctuating freight rates.
The situation represents a significant transformation in global trade, in which all involved parties would need to adapt accordingly, says Alvin Fuh, Dimercos vice president of Ocean Freight.
While Africa is not directly targeted by the US tariff measures, the broader consequences of global trade disruption are still likely to be felt. Ships and aircraft that typically serve African routes may be redirected or delayed if they are assigned to regions experiencing higher demand or offering greater profitability, such as Asia or the United States. This could result in increased freight charges, particularly for goods originating from China, India and Southeast Asia en route to African ports.
Disruptions in the global supply chain could also lead to delivery delays, product shortages, and rising costs for both African consumers and businesses.
Looking at potential cost impacts, Dimerco said shipments of Africa-bound goods delayed in Asian ports could result in increased costs, which would ultimately be passed on to consumers.
The challenges are also not limited to tariffs. Seasonal weather disturbances, including monsoon rains in India and typhoons in East Asia, are causing further delays in cargo movement.
Ports in countries such as the Philippines, South Korea and Vietnam are experiencing water damage, slow processing, and cancelled flights. Overland transport, particularly trucking, has also been affected across several regions. These disruptions have created a logistical backlog that will require time to resolve.
African importers who rely on Asian-made products such as machinery, textiles, spare parts, electronics or chemicals may encounter delays or interruptions in supply.
Tensions in the Middle East are also contributing to the crisis. Conflict near the Red Sea has forced numerous vessels to avoid the Suez Canal, opting instead to take the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope. This rerouting has increased maritime traffic in African waters, leading to higher congestion at key ports such as Durban, Mombasa and Dar es Salaam.
As a result, cargo shipments travelling from Asia to Europe and the United States are taking longer, and shipping companies have raised their rates to reflect the extended journey contributing further to rising transport costs.
According to Dimercos report, freight companies are now cancelling sailings, adjusting vessel routes and increasing charges in response to the disruptions. Furthermore, trade negotiations between the US and China may extend beyond the expected deadline of 12 August, creating further uncertainty.
To manage these challenges, African importers and exporters are advised to act proactively. It is crucial to stay informed about changes in freight markets, particularly developments in the United States, China and Southeast Asia. Businesses should coordinate with logistics providers well in advance and plan shipments at least two to three weeks ahead.
During the rainy season, protective packaging such as shrink wrap or waterproof materials can help safeguard cargo. Additionally, businesses should prepare for potential surcharges linked to peak season demand or port congestion. Anticipating delays and maintaining extra inventory, or identifying alternative suppliers, can help reduce disruptions.
Despite the difficulties, there may also be opportunities for Africa amid the upheaval. With global shipping routes being adjusted, some carriers may begin exploring alternative transit hubs. African ports that offer r