The Asia-Pacific region continues to play a pivotal role in driving global trade, fueled by robust demand across ocean, air, and inland logistics. As global supply chains adapt to evolving market conditions, Maersk has made significant strides in the transition of its East-West network. By February 2025, 75% of the network had been implemented under the Gemini Cooperation, achieving an impressive 94% schedule reliability.
Shifting trade policies, such as the U.S. Section 301 review and anticipated reciprocal tariffs, may create new complexities for supply chains, underscoring the need for businesses to remain flexible and proactive. In air freight, the Asia-North America corridor continues to experience strong demand, although regulatory changes could reshape cross-border e-commerce flows.
Recent data from Alphaliner highlights that global container trade demonstrated resilience in the first quarter of 2025, buoyed by vigorous export activity from the Asia-Pacific region. The steady phase-in of the Gemini Cooperation has enhanced Maersk’s vessel utilization and service reliability, bolstering international supply chains amidst an expanding global fleet. With a 10% year-on-year fleet size increase by February 2025 and minimal vessel idling, major trade routes are operating at high utilization levels.
Maersk remains dedicated to optimizing capacity and vessel deployment to meet growing demand while maintaining reliability. The network’s flexibility allows it to adapt swiftly to changing trade patterns and volume fluctuations. To help customers navigate these dynamics effectively, Maersk encourages proactive shipment planning and the use of its digital tools for real-time tracking and capacity insights, ultimately enhancing supply chain resilience.
Looking ahead, strong market demand and ongoing fleet expansion are expected to shape trade flows in the near term. Maersk’s regional teams are ready to provide tailored logistics solutions, and customers can access updates and support through Maersk’s online platforms.
Progress of the East-West Network
The Gemini Cooperation, in conjunction with Maersk’s East-West network (previously referred to as the Network of the Future), aims to create a flexible, interconnected ocean network with industry-leading reliability. The ambitious target of achieving schedule reliability exceeding 90% (as benchmarked by Sea-Intel) is on track to be met by the network’s full implementation in May 2025.
Currently, over 250 of the approximately 340 vessels in the East-West network have transitioned to the new operational framework. The Asia-Pacific segment of the network was fully integrated within the first month of the rollout, ensuring seamless connectivity within the region.
Schedule Reliability Milestone
On March 25, Sea-Intelligence released its monthly schedule reliability data, showcasing the performance of the Gemini Cooperation. According to the report, the collaboration delivered an impressive schedule reliability of 94% in February 2025, underscoring the success of the phased implementation.
