Recorded live at TPM25 in Long Beach by host Mike King and including additional reaction as the trading landscape further evolved, this episode of the Loadstar Podcast brings you the latest breaking news while also explaining how politics is reshaping global trade. From President Trump's flip-flopping on tariffs to the $19 billion MSC/BlackRock/Hutchison deal that prompted Trump to talk about "reclaiming the Panama Canal", the event was a whirlwind of insights that captured the intersection of politics and trade.

 

As TPM unfolded, forwarders and shippers scrambled to secure trans-Pacific capacity amidst tariff confusion and the possible impact of a reopened Suez Canal. Smaller shippers are feeling the pressure as carriers seem to have the upper hand, while larger players are more confident in their positions.

 

With the unveiling of the Gemini Cooperation between Hapag-Lloyd and Maersk promising 90% schedule reliability, this episode dives deep into the evolving landscape of global logistics.

 

In other big news, CMA CGM's Rodolphe Saadé made headlines after meeting with Trump and pledging a $20 billion investment in U.S. logistics. His plans to triple the U.S.-flagged fleet and create a Chicago air freight hub are certainly one to watch. But where these ships will be built is still up in the air.
Industry leaders like Rolf Habben-Jansen (Hapag-Lloyd), Lars Mikael Jensen (APM Terminals), Ed Brzytwa (Consumer Technology Association), Doug Smith (DP World Canada), Lars Jensen (Vespucci Maritime), Soren Toft (MSC), Akhil Nair (Logisteed), and Niall van de Wouw (Xeneta) share their expert insights.
Though recorded live at TPM25, the news continues to evolve—and this episode is packed with timely takeaways that you won't want to miss.

 

Guests
Rolf Habben-Jansen, CEO, Hapag-Lloyd
Lars Mikael Jensen, head of hubs, APM Terminals
Ed Brzytwa, VP of International Trade, Consumer Technology Association
Doug Smith, CEO, DP World Canada
Lars Jensen, CEO of Vespucci Maritime
Soren Toft, CEO, MSC
Akhil Nair, global head of freight forwarding, Logisteed
Niall van de Wouw, chief airfreight officer, Xeneta