Asian-based logistics operators are increasing their U.S. warehouse leasing activities in response to evolving e-commerce trends, global trade shifts, and manufacturing strategies. Third-party logistics providers (3PLs), which handle storage, packaging, and transportation for online retailers, have more than doubled their leasing activity in key U.S. markets like New Jersey and Los Angeles compared to 2023, according to Cushman & Wakefield. This trend has emerged as a bright spot in the warehousing industry, where overall demand has slowed following the post-pandemic e-commerce surge.

Several factors are driving this shift, including concerns over U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports, leading companies to stockpile inventory domestically. Chinese e-commerce firms and logistics providers are projected to account for 20% of new U.S. warehouse leases through Q3 2024, according to Prologis. Additionally, the de minimis exemption, which allows direct online shipments to U.S. consumers from Asia, has made warehouse expansion a strategic advantage. As U.S. retailers and wholesalers prepare for potential trade policy changes, Asian logistics operators are aggressively expanding their footprint, securing a dominant role in the industrial leasing sector.

Link: https://apnews.com/article/trade-warehouse-china-online-shopping-eba5283b0762fa958ab90fb731370117