Today’s markets are surrounded by change and volatility:
- Exports to West Africa, Far East and the Mediterranean have slowed.
- Problems in Russia and the Ukraine have caused major a drop-off in volumes.
- Western sanctions and rising debts are strangling the Russian economy, now teetering on the verge of recession, and have thrown international projects into turmoil.
- With the U.S. currency being high, it is also causing a buying factor affecting U.S. exports abroad.
With slower markets, we are cautiously optimistic as it will take time to recover, but we must be positive about the future of our industry. Freight moves the economy and, as such, we envision growth in 2016 in spite of uncertainty.
We cannot afford to lose focus on long-term strategies for growth; it is the perfect time to seek new trade opportunities. South America may see a rise in cargo movement. With the lifting of the U.S. embargo on Cuba, we may soon see a new market develop. Going forward, we should stay focused on the present business at hand, keep all eyes open and remain confident toward the future.
Bella Foss, President and Founder, Briz Forwarding/IFC International Freight