Latest Trends in International Trade (2024–2025)

Card Image

Global trade is being reshaped by multi-layered factors such as the recovery process after the pandemic, geopolitical developments, digital transformation and sustainability. The most important trends determining the direction of international trade in the 2024–2025 period include not only economic but also technological, environmental and political dimensions.

1. Supply Chain Restructuring (Nearshoring & Friendshoring)

One of the most striking topics in international trade in the 2024–2025 period is the restructuring of supply chains. This change is due to geopolitical tensions, global shocks after the pandemic, increasing transportation costs and the need for strategic autonomy.

Nearshoring means that companies move their production activities to geographically closer regions. For example, a company based in Europe might shift production from Asia to Eastern Europe or Turkey.

Why is it important?

  • Supply chain crises, especially after events like COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war, have led companies to make their global value chains shorter, more secure, and more flexible. For this reason:
  • Multinational companies are now looking at strategic resilience instead of just low-cost production.
  • Competitive advantage is defined not only by price, but also by speed of delivery, compliance, and risk management.

    • 2. Electrification and Zero Emission Transportation

    Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: According to International Energy Agency (IEA) reports, the share of electric trucks in the logistics sector will exceed 20% by 2025. Tesla Semi, Volvo Trucks and Daimler's electric truck models are revolutionizing long-range transportation.

    Urban Electric Distribution: Logistics giants such as Amazon and DHL have started using 100% electric fleets in urban delivery operations.

    3. Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence Integration

    Real-Time Tracking and IoT: Real-time tracking of logistics vehicles and cargo is becoming possible thanks to Internet of Things (IoT) devices. This technology offers greater transparency to both logistics companies and customers.

    Autonomous Vehicles and Drones: Autonomous trucks and delivery drones are speeding up delivery processes by reducing the reliance on labor in the transportation sector.

    Digital Twin and Artificial Intelligence: Digital twin technology and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing transportation infrastructure management. Virtual models and simulations are optimizing infrastructure scenarios.