Insight
Space race: responding to the surge
With the surge in oversized cargo driven by Spain and Portugal’s accelerating investment in offshore wind, green hydrogen and industrial projects, ports across the Iberian Peninsula are racing to expand capacity and unlock new logistics potential. Daniel Searle reports on how the region is preparing to move the energy transition, piece by piece.
US offshore wind determined despite federal opposition
A resolute sense of determination was very much in the air at the Oceanic Network IPF25 offshore wind (OSW) conference in Virginia on April 28 to May 1. To be sure the hot topic of conversation was several directives out of the White House in previous weeks and months targeting offshore wind development in general and one project off New York in particular. Nevertheless, there was confidence that offshore wind has already become essential if the USA is to meet its soaring demand for power.
Geopolitics casts a shadow over buoyant civil sector
Worldwide requirements for upgraded basic infrastructure, notably transport systems and public utilities, will continue driving long-term demand for new civil engineering projects. Shorter-term, though, geopolitical issues, notably repercussions from new USA-led international trade tariffs and the war in Ukraine, are likely to harm the sector. Phil Hastings reports.
PDB approach reshapes project logistics involvement in civil sector
One of the more significant long-term trends in the global civil engineering sector, particularly relevant to project logistics providers, is the growing adoption of progressive design-build (PDB). This project delivery method promotes early collaboration between the design and construction phases to help mitigate delays and cost overruns. The shift is broadly welcomed by logisticians, who have long advocated for earlier and closer coordination across project stakeholders, writes Phil Hastings.
Navigating the heights of Austria and Switzerland
The mountainous terrain of Austria and Switzerland presents both opportunities and challenges for project logistics. Hydropower remains a cornerstone of the energy landscape, with companies specialising in the transport of oversized components for domestic and international projects. However, the management of complex multimodal transport solutions to stringent regulatory requirements and evolving economic landscapes are posing questions of project forwarders. Daniel Searle reports.
A brief reprieve
On April 9, just hours after announcing reciprocal tariffs on all countries, US president Donald Trump abruptly backtracked, suspending their implementation for 90 days. However, China was not spared: its tariff was increased to 125 percent. The baseline 10 percent tariffs on all countries, introduced on April 5 – dubbed ‘Liberation Day’ – remain in effect. Additionally, 25 percent duties on autos and steel are still in place.
Fair winds and following seas…
As Shipping Days 2025 approaches, industry leaders are set to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in maritime and logistics, from the energy transition and digitalisation to the future of shortsea shipping. With a focus on France’s renewable marine energies and port infrastructure, Atlantic Port La Rochelle is positioning itself at the heart of the country’s offshore wind ambitions. Meanwhile, shifting market dynamics in project logistics are creating fresh opportunities both at home and abroad.
Modularisation raises the bar for project logistics
With rapid development of export terminals and the new US administration keen to boost oil and gas exploration, the immediate future is looking bright for LNG. But how long can the boom last? Ian Putzger reports.
Nigeria rises as a powerhouse for project logistics
With a surge of infrastructure and energy projects under way, Nigeria is emerging as a powerhouse for project logistics in Africa. As currency stability improves and foreign investment returns, 2025 is shaping up to be a year of rising volumes and fresh opportunities, writes Megan Ramsay.
African logisticians prepare for continental boom
Africa is a key frontier market for the project logistics sector with major investments across energy, mining, infrastructure and manufacturing. From oil and gas expansion in the west to renewable energy growth in the north and east, the continent presents vast – albeit complex – opportunities for the sector.
Joint ventures and big ambitions
Breakbulk Middle East 2025 wrapped up in mid-February, with much of the discussion centred on navigating regional tensions while capitalising on the significant opportunities available in the Middle East for the heavy lift and project forwarding sector. In recent years, joint ventures (JVs) have become a key strategy for companies looking to establish or expand their foothold in the market.
Upstream demands stretch heavy lift capacity
Recent capital expenditure figures and projected investment levels suggest that demand for new upstream oil and gas projects will remain strong through 2030 and beyond. The uptick is driving demand for sophisticated project logistics solutions across multiple markets.
