New trade lane shifts driven by new market opportunities and global trade challenges
Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), one of the world’s leading express transportation companies, has released new insights from a survey examining trade lane trends between Asia Pacific (APAC) and Europe. The findings highlight the rising confidence and challenges faced by SMEs in the Philippines and across the region as they expand cross-border commerce.
Asia-Europe Trade Gains Momentum
Conducted in September 2025, the survey polled 850 SMEs across 13 APAC markets and over 1,200 SMEs across nine European markets. Results show a notable surge in trade: 76% of APAC businesses reported increased exports to Europe over the past year, with the United Kingdom (42%), Germany (40%), and France (38%) leading growth. Meanwhile, 87% of European SMEs are shifting trade focus toward APAC or maintaining current levels, with China (55%), Japan (36%), and South Korea (24%) projected as top growth markets in the next two years.
This optimism reflects broader market trends, with the Asia–Europe corridor recording 30 consecutive months of growth as of August 2025, reinforcing its importance for SMEs of all sizes.
Key Drivers and Emerging Opportunities
APAC SMEs attribute trade growth to strong European consumer demand, competitive pricing, and strategic expansion opportunities. Eighty-five percent plan to begin or expand trade with Europe within the next 12–24 months. European SMEs, meanwhile, are drawn to APAC for strategic prospects, advanced logistics solutions, and favorable trade agreements.
Despite the optimism, businesses remain cautious. Regulatory changes, complex customs processes, and global market volatility are top concerns, affecting 86% of APAC SMEs and 78% of European SMEs. To overcome these challenges, 30% of APAC and 41% of European firms seek digital tools for enhanced supply chain visibility, faster shipping, and reduced delivery times. Similarly, 27% of APAC and 41% of European businesses look for deeper customs expertise to navigate regulations and manage costs efficiently.
FedEx: Enabling Seamless Cross-Border Commerce
“The strong confidence among Philippine SMEs in expanding trade with Europe highlights the country’s growing role in global commerce,” said Maribeth Espinosa, Managing Director of FedEx Philippines. “FedEx is committed to supporting this momentum through reliable logistics, digital solutions, and trade expertise that help businesses thrive along the dynamic Asia-Europe corridor.”
To meet rising demand, FedEx recently added five weekly flights connecting Asia to Europe, while enhanced connectivity from Vietnam to Europe has cut shipment time by one day. The company now operates 26 weekly flights across APAC-Europe routes, ensuring express deliveries to major European destinations in as little as 48 hours.
FedEx’s integrated air-and-road network, anchored by hubs in Paris, France, and Liege, Belgium, serves 550+ pick-up and delivery stations across 45 countries and territories, handling over two million packages daily.
Digital Tools and Trade Expertise for SMEs
FedEx also empowers businesses with smart digital solutions and specialized trade knowledge. Electronic Trade Documents streamline customs declarations, while the FedEx Import Tool enables real-time tracking, clearance status updates, and downloadable documents. The FedEx Go-To Europe Hub provides APAC businesses with trade guidelines, market insights, and multimedia resources to confidently expand and compete across borders.
To learn more about how FedEx drives global trade, visit fedex.com/trade.
