Maersk's November 2025 Market Update for the IMEA region reveals a resilient trade landscape amidst complex policies and shifting global demands. Get ready for a deep dive into the latest trade developments and their impact on businesses across India, the Middle East, and Africa.
Executive Summary:
The final quarter of 2025 brings stabilized ocean reliability, major customs reforms, and a focus on sustainable inland logistics. India's trade negotiations with the EU and the India-EFTA pact signal a boost for manufacturing and consumer goods exports. In Africa, grape and cocoa sectors thrive with robust pricing and improved traceability. Gulf economies lead the way in digitizing trade, solidifying their global logistics hub status.
Ocean Update:
South Africa's Grape Season:
The grape export season is set to begin in mid-Q4, with healthy yields and strong European demand. Cape Town's terminal operations remain steady, but weather delays may occur. Equipment repositioning and the Gemini network's stabilized schedules ensure a smooth start, boosting market reliability.
West Africa's Cocoa Sector:
The cocoa sector in West Africa is experiencing a resurgence. Record farmgate prices in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana are encouraging farmer participation and formal trade. The sector's focus on traceability and sustainable farming aligns with global standards. Higher farmer engagement improves nomination predictability, enhancing supply chain planning.
Customs Update:
Saudi Arabia's SABER 2.0:
Saudi Arabia's mandatory SABER Shipment Certificate before customs declaration leverages blockchain verification. The enhanced system expands compliance for high-risk goods. Importers must also submit advance manifests, in line with Vision 2030's 'Clearance within 2 Hours' initiative. Early integration of these workflows is crucial for timely processing.
Oman's Special Economic Zone:
Oman's new Rawdah SEZ offers duty exemptions and bonded warehousing, boosting cross-border re-exports. This zone is expected to attract manufacturing investment in construction materials and consumer goods.
Qatar's Digitized Customs:
Qatar's AI-enabled 'Customs Documents' system automates customs agreements, enhancing compliance and traceability. The Ministry of Transport mandates the use of authorized freight forwarders for all import/export shipments.
India's Trade Facilitation:
Negotiations for the India-EU Free Trade Agreement are accelerating, with a target completion date of December 2025. The India-EFTA Pact's operationalization unlocks significant investment. The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs streamlined compliance with a unified directive.
Bangladesh's Tariff Reform:
Bangladesh's FY26 budget introduces a comprehensive tariff reform as it prepares to graduate from LDC status. The reform aims to enhance export competitiveness by expanding bonded warehouses and simplifying clearance procedures. Importers and exporters should review rules of origin and tariffs to capitalize on new market access.
Impact on Businesses:
- Exporters benefit from lower input costs for pharmaceuticals and agro-machinery, and faster clearance.
- Importers enjoy reduced tariffs on essentials and raw materials, but luxury goods face higher duties.
- Transition reforms help Bangladesh maintain cost competitiveness and supply chain efficiency post-LDC graduation.
Sri Lanka's Trade Facilitation:
Sri Lanka's Trade Facilitation Action Plan focuses on digitizing customs and WTO compliance, reducing delays and improving transparency. Customs revenue has already reached 90% of the annual target, aided by digital tools.
Pakistan's National Tariff Policy:
Pakistan's National Tariff Policy aims to reduce average tariffs to below 10% by 2030. The policy simplifies customs duty slabs and phases out additional duties. Complementary reforms under the Finance Bill expand the zero-duty slab and lower ACDs.
Impact on Businesses:
- Importers benefit from lower input costs for industrial materials, improving production margins.
- Exporters gain a competitive edge with cheaper inputs and streamlined customs.
- The policy supports Pakistan's export-led recovery strategy, improving cost structures for key industries.
Global Trade Watch:
The US has entered bilateral trade frameworks with Asian countries, diversifying supply chains. New critical minerals agreements with Japan further enhance regional resilience.
Inland Update:
Rail Freight Expansion in India:
India's rail-based freight is gaining traction, especially on north-west and north-east corridors. The expanded Maersk Intercontinental Rail network offers temperature-controlled services to Europe and the Middle East. This rail solution reduces emissions and transit times, enhancing export competitiveness for key industries. Inland rail logistics is a critical pillar of India's sustainable trade growth, supported by decarbonization policies.
Useful Links:
For more insights and news, visit Maersk's Insights Hub and explore the latest trends in digitization, sustainability, growth, resilience, and integrated logistics. Stay tuned for Maersk's upcoming IMEA FMCG webinar and register now!
