Stay the course — there’s no need to panic. Much of this year’s traffic was front-loaded, creating softer volumes in the late third and fourth quarters. We’ve also seen adjustments to meet new government regulations, while carriers continue expanding their fleets.
Year-over-year indicators show only a slight reduction in 2024 volumes, still well above pre-COVID levels. As JOC has reported, 2024 was defined by pre-buying; in 2025, that inventory flowed through the supply chain, with import activity expected to return to normal by 2026.
The broader economy remains stronger than many perceive — the stock market is at historic highs and trade fundamentals point toward renewed growth ahead.
Rather than view this deceleration as a downturn, the industry should use it as a reset: to invest in areas of improvement without the strain of record volumes. The focus should remain on long-term competitiveness and workforce development.
This is a moment for recalibration, not retreat — strengthening the foundation for the next phase of sustainable growth in shipping.