- Published 12:18
Transport and logistics companies are grappling with rising costs and supply chain disruption. Meanwhile, a growing trade imbalance with China is creating new challenges across Europe's logistics network
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Persistent geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions are causing a major cost shock across the transport and logistics sector. Fuel prices have risen sharply, while waiting times in ports continue to increase. Higher wages, rising interest rates and the truck charging scheme are also driving up costs. As a result, the sector’s average revenue growth of 10% in 2026 largely reflects higher rates rather than stronger underlying activity. In road freight transport, operators are unlikely to pass on all additional costs immediately, putting pressure on profitability. Shipping and logistics service providers face a different situation, as they also benefit from the global disruptions.
An additional challenge for the logistics sector is the growing trade imbalance with China. European imports from China were more than 20% higher in the first half of 2026 than two years earlier, while European exports to China declined by 11%. This is leading to a rapidly growing number of empty containers and increasing inefficiencies in ports and inland transport networks. Our latest outlook articles explore how rising costs, global disruptions and shifting trade flows are reshaping the sector.
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