Trade deals, shipping shifts and carbon rules
With the first week of May behind us, the logistics industry is already seeing significant movement. From shifting trade policies and global sustainability initiatives to changes in warehousing and global shipping trends, May is shaping up to be a month of notable change.
One headline grabbing attention is the ongoing turbulence around Trump-era tariffs and the recently announced UK–US trade deal. While some tariffs are being reconsidered, logistics planners are still facing rising costs and uncertainty, particularly when it comes to sourcing and shipping from Asia to Europe and the US. In the middle of all this, businesses in the UK are trying to balance resilience with environmental responsibility – and that’s where logistics partners like Green Leaves Logistics can offer practical support.
Here’s a closer look at the top stories that matter in May 2025.
UK–US trade deal announced
On 8 May 2025, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and US President Donald Trump announced a new bilateral trade agreement aimed at reducing tariffs and improving market access. While exact terms are still emerging, the logistics sector is preparing for adjustments in routing, customs processes, and supplier strategies.
Why it matters: For UK importers and exporters, new agreements may bring opportunities—but also new paperwork and uncertainty. Working with a forwarder that monitors global trade developments will be essential to adapting quickly and avoiding unnecessary costs.
Read more here: Logistics Manager
UK signs new trade deal with India
On 6 May, the UK signed a fresh trade agreement with India, marking a major milestone in efforts to strengthen economic ties between the two nations. The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) highlighted this as one of the most comprehensive deals the UK has signed since Brexit, aiming to reduce barriers for UK businesses trading with India.
Why it matters: India is one of the fastest-growing markets in global logistics. For companies sourcing goods or materials from India, this agreement could open up streamlined customs procedures, lower tariffs, and more reliable trade lanes. For Green Leaves Logistics and our clients, this opens the door to smarter, more flexible trade planning in South Asia.
Read more here: BIFA
DEFRA updates UK carbon reporting guidance
The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has published revised guidance on corporate greenhouse gas reporting for UK businesses. This update includes expanded information on measuring Scope 3 emissions, including transportation and distribution.
Why it matters: Freight-related emissions fall under Scope 3, and many UK businesses are now expected to report them transparently. Green Leaves helps clients gather the right data and offers support in understanding what it means for their reporting obligations.
Read more here: Gov.uk
Maersk reports trends in European shipping
In its May 2025 market update, Maersk reported continued disruption across ocean and inland transport routes. Highlights include new surcharges, container shortages in some areas, and the opening of a new warehouse in France to improve European capacity.
Why it matters: The post-Red Sea rerouting effects are still being felt. This reinforces the need to plan ahead, allow flexibility in transit times, and work with reliable logistics partners.
Read more here: Maersk
FIATA highlights trade and innovation updates
FIATA’s latest updates focus on international trade, legal reforms in shipping, and insights from the RAME Field Meeting in Zanzibar. Key topics include the digitisation of trade documents and improved customs efficiency.
Why it matters: As trade processes become increasingly digitised, being aligned with global standards helps prevent delays, reduces paperwork, and opens up faster, more efficient shipping routes. Green Leaves uses this insight to streamline customs procedures and improve shipment reliability for clients.
Read more here: FIATA
If you’re dealing with shifting trade rules, emissions reporting, or long-term planning for sustainable shipping, Green Leaves Logistics is ready to help. We turn complexity into clarity – with real-world advice, transparent communication, and reliable delivery.