APAC Firms Shift Focus From US as Trade Rules Tighten, Says FedEx Survey

A new FedEx survey Asia-Pacific trade reveals that more than 40% of APAC businesses plan to pivot away from the United States within a year, as firms adjust to regulatory changes and supply-chain pressures. Of those surveyed, 22% will target Asian markets and 21% will shift toward Europe. The survey of 3,800 companies across nine regional economies follows the US ending its de minimis rule in August, which had exempted imports under USD800 from customs duties. The policy change has prompted postal suspensions from over 30 countries amid rising regulatory uncertainty. About 27% of respondents cited keeping up with US rule changes as a major trade barrier, while 25% prioritised clarity on pre-shipment taxes. In response to the shift, FedEx has launched new intra-Asia routes linking South Korea, Vietnam, China, and Taiwan to strengthen regional connectivity.