FedEx Survey Highlights Rising APAC SME Trade Confidence in European Markets and Its Effects on Global Logistics

Rising Trade Confidence Between Asia Pacific and Europe

More and more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are showing strong confidence in expanding trade ties with Europe. A recent FedEx survey drawn from multiple APAC and European markets reveals a bullish outlook for cross-border trade growth, with nearly 85% of APAC SMEs expecting increased business with European partners in the near future. This optimism aligns with broader trends of sustained trade growth along one of the world’s key commercial arteries — the Asia-Europe trade corridor.

Survey Scope and Key Findings

The survey, conducted in late 2025, gathered responses from approximately 850 APAC SMEs and over 1,200 European SMEs. It explored their sentiments on trade volumes, readiness for cross-border expansion, and the challenges they face. The findings reveal a significant uptick in export activities, with 76% of APAC companies noting increased exports to Europe. Leading European markets receiving this surge include the United Kingdom (42%), Germany (40%), and France (38%).

On the flip side, European SMEs remain equally optimistic about penetrating APAC markets, with 87% either increasing or maintaining their trade ties. The top APAC destinations attracting European firms are China (55%), Japan (36%), and South Korea (24%). This mutual enthusiasm underscores the continued strength of the Asia-Europe route, which has seen steady growth for over two years.

Driving Forces Behind the Increased Asia-Europe Trade

Several factors are fueling this robust trade momentum. In the APAC region, growing demand from European consumers, better price competitiveness of Asian goods, and strategic expansion plans by SMEs are cited as key drivers. Approximately 68% of APAC respondents attribute growth to these factors, and a striking 85% expressed plans to either initiate or ramp up trade with Europe within the next two years.

Conversely, European businesses are eager to capitalize on APAC’s market potential, supported by favorable trade agreements and sophisticated logistics solutions. The promise of new strategic opportunities keeps European SMEs engaged despite some headwinds.

Herausforderungen und Lösungen

Despite the rosy outlook, hurdles remain plentiful. Complex customs regulations, shifting bureaucratic requirements, and global market volatility present significant barriers—reported by 86% of APAC SMEs and 78% of their European counterparts. Such challenges risk slowing shipments and increasing costs for cross-border logistics.

To tackle these issues, SMEs are turning to digital tools aimed at improving supply chain visibility, streamlining shipping, and shortening delivery times. About 30% of APAC and 41% of European SMEs desire better digital platforms, while an equal share also looks for enhanced customs expertise to ease regulatory navigation and prevent costly delays.

FedEx’s Role in Supporting Surge in Asia-Europe Trade

FedEx has responded to this growing demand by expanding its logistics capacity between Asia and Europe. This includes boosting the number of weekly flights by five in 2025 and improving transit times from Vietnam to Europe by an entire day. Currently, FedEx operates 26 weekly flights servicing this route, enabling express shipments to reach major European hubs within 48 hours.

The company’s integrated air-and-road network, anchored by major logistics hubs in Paris and Liege, Belgium, makes it one of the fastest shipping options in Europe. With over 550 pick-up and delivery stations across 45 countries and territories, FedEx facilitates the sorting and distribution of upwards of two million packages daily.

Innovation in Digital and Trade Expertise

Beyond capacity, FedEx offers customers digital customs documentation tools to simplify paperwork, real-time tracking of clearance statuses, and on-demand document downloads. Initiatives like the FedEx Go-To Europe Hub provide SMEs with vital market insights and guidelines for cross-border trade success between APAC and Europe.

Table: Breakdown of Key Survey Insights

What This Means for Logistics and Freight Forwarding

The increasing trade activities between APAC SMEs and European markets place significant pressure on logistics channels, making efficient and reliable freight services more important than ever. Faster shipment times, streamlined customs, and better tracking capabilities are no longer luxuries—they’re essentials for SMEs looking to thrive in this competitive cross-border marketplace.

For freight forwarders and logistics providers, this means adapting to rapidly evolving market demands by investing in digital tools, flexible air and road networks, and expert customs knowledge. The ability to handle bulky shipments, oversized cargo, or time-sensitive parcels efficiently in this corridor becomes a vital competitive edge.

Logistics Network Requirements

• Enhanced air connectivity for express and standard shipments
• Integrated multimodal transport solutions (air, road, rail)
• Advanced customs brokerage and compliance expertise
• Digital visibility tools for end-to-end shipment tracking
• Capacity for bulky and oversized freight handling

Harnessing Technology to Navigate Trade Complexities

Digital transformation is at the heart of overcoming cross-border shipping challenges. Advanced platforms that simplify customs processing and provide real-time updates empower SMEs to manage international logistics with confidence and less risk of costly delays. This technological integration also opens doors for smarter route planning and optimized shipment dispatch, which directly lower operating costs and improve service reliability.

Opportunities Ahead and Personal Experience’s Value

The dynamic growth between APAC and Europe presents fresh opportunities for SMEs and logistics partners to build resilient supply chains capable of handling increasing cargo volumes and complex regulatory landscapes. However, even the most thorough market reports and honest reviews can only say so much—actual experience often carries the day.

Platforms like GetTransport.com allow businesses to tap into a global network of cargo transportation options, from office and home relocations to the delivery of large and bulky items. By offering transparent pricing and a wide selection of freight services, customers can find reliable solutions tailored to their unique logistics needs without shelling out a fortune or facing unpleasant surprises. This makes it easier to test and gain firsthand knowledge about the most effective transport methods.

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Looking Ahead: Impact on Global Logistics

Although the Asia-Europe trade growth driven by these optimistic SMEs may not singlehandedly reshape global logistics, it undeniably affirms the trajectory toward greater intercontinental freight activity. At the same time, it highlights the pressing need for logistics networks to evolve—focusing on capacity, reliability, and intelligent supply chain solutions. Staying attuned to such developments ensures platforms like GetTransport.com remain fully equipped to meet evolving freight and shipment demands.

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Zusammenfassung

Trade between Asia Pacific SMEs and European markets is on the rise, buoyed by optimistic business sentiment and a growing appetite for cross-border commerce. While challenges such as regulatory complexity and customs hurdles persist, digital tools and expanded logistics capacity are key to unlocking smoother, faster shipment experiences. FedEx’s strategic expansions have demonstrated how freight forwarders are stepping up to accommodate this surge, catering to time-sensitive shipments and bulky freight alike.

This growing dynamic emphasizes the importance of a robust logistics infrastructure that embraces digital innovation, expert customs support, and integrated transportation networks. For businesses navigating this expanding trade route, platforms like GetTransport.com offer cost-effective, transparent, and versatile cargo delivery solutions. Whether moving household goods, business freight, or bulk items, GetTransport.com simplifies the complexities of international logistics, empowering customers to capitalize on the trade growth with confidence and efficiency.