COSCO Shipping is navigating a challenging global trade environment marked by geopolitical tensions and weakening demand. Despite a volatile freight rate environment and uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff policies, the Chinese state-owned shipping giant managed to increase its profits. The company is focusing on strategic investments in emerging markets across Asia and Africa to offset pressures from U.S.-China trade frictions. Container shipping rates are falling due to weak demand, driven by a slump in Europe, a slowdown in U.S. goods spending, and excess shipping capacity, signaling broader concerns about the health of global trade. COSCO's port operations have acknowledged difficulties arising from U.S.-China tensions, and the company warns that ongoing geopolitical risks continue to cloud its outlook. Industry experts also caution that U.S. container imports are on the verge of a historic collapse, with recent growth figures proving misleading.