International logistics providers are increasingly turning their focus to China, drawn by the country’s strong port infrastructure, resilient trade performance, and growing role in global supply chains. At the recent Tianjin International Shipping Industry Expo, held in northern China, global shipping executives gathered to deepen partnerships and explore growth opportunities.
Among them was Don Kaushalya Wirasinha, General Manager of Dubai-based GSI Global Logistics, who expressed confidence in China’s long-term logistics potential. “We expect good business in the future,” Wirasinha said, citing growing relationships with Chinese forwarders and partners. GSI, which operates in major Chinese ports including Tianjin, Shanghai and Ningbo, provides international freight services from transport to customs clearance.
“Hardly any country can operate without some involvement with China, as it exports goods to virtually every corner of the world,” he added.
China maintained its position as the global leader in port activity in 2024, leading the world in cargo and container throughput, supported by an expanding fleet and extensive international routes. According to the China Federation of Logistics & Purchasing, China’s logistics activity continued to grow through May 2025, with the national index holding above 50—indicating sustained expansion.
For logistics and port professionals attending the Tianjin expo, China represents not just a manufacturing powerhouse but a critical logistics partner. Mikhael Mangopo, director of Indonesian marine surveyor Geovaruna, emphasized the value of connecting with Chinese shipowners and equipment providers. He plans to apply insights from the event to support Chinese firms operating in Indonesia’s maritime zones.
China’s trade remains robust amid global uncertainty. In the first five months of 2025, foreign trade in goods grew 2.5% year-over-year, reaching 17.94 trillion yuan (approximately $2.5 trillion USD). Exports alone climbed 7.2%, according to the General Administration of Customs.
Despite geopolitical shifts and increasing protectionism, China’s industrial and shipping infrastructure continues to attract foreign engagement. Sri Lanka Ports Authority’s Lal Weerasinghe noted strong ties with Chinese port groups and credited initiatives like the Belt and Road for improving connectivity and driving investment.
“China’s port and shipping strength is foundational to our global trade links. We’re focused on growing these partnerships even further,” Weerasinghe said.
As international logistics players adapt to a shifting trade landscape, partnerships with Chinese firms and ports are becoming increasingly central to their global strategy—reinforcing China’s role as a key node in international freight and logistics planning. Sobel continues to monitor these global dynamics and provides insight to help clients navigate and optimize cross-border supply chains.
