Global trade experienced an impressive boost, growing by an estimated $300 billion in the first half of 2025 – a bright spark in an otherwise cautious global market. 🚀 According to the latest report from the United Nations Trade and Development (UNCTAD), rising prices have helped lift the overall trade value, even though actual trade volumes increased by just 1%.
In Q1, growth was at 1.5%, with expectations rising to 2% in Q2. This trend shows that while price hikes are fueling the numbers, the real deal – actual goods moving across borders – is a bit sluggish.
Notably, services trade has been the real MVP, soaring 9% over the last four quarters. This growth reflects how digital services and tech-driven solutions are playing a key role, something many young professionals and digital entrepreneurs in South and Southeast Asia can relate to. 📈
However, there are warning signs too. Mixed trends in merchandise trade, with the United States witnessing a 14% surge in imports and the European Union a 6% rise in exports, paint a complex picture. The widening trade deficit in the United States and concerns over increased tariffs on steel and aluminum are raising flags for future trade imbalances.
Amid persistent policy instability and geopolitical tensions, the outlook remains uncertain. For tech-savvy individuals and aspiring professionals, keeping an eye on these trends is crucial as they could influence everything from startup investments to everyday pricing. Stay tuned for more updates as the global trade story unfolds! 🌏
Reference(s):
UN: Global trade grows by $300 billion in H1, outlook still uncertain
cgtn.com
