In February 2025, the U.S. administration imposed significant tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, citing concerns over immigration and drug trafficking. These measures include a 25% tariff on goods from Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
These developments are accelerating supply chain diversification, prompting manufacturers to shift operations to Southeast Asia (SEA) and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Consequently, there’s a notable surge in demand for skilled freight forwarding professionals in these areas.
Key Impacts on the Freight Forwarding Talent Market:
- Increased Demand for Specialized Roles
As manufacturers relocate to countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, freight forwarders must expand their teams to manage rising trade volumes. Key hiring areas include:
- Freight Procurement Specialists: Negotiating competitive carrier contracts.
- Trade Lane Managers: Optimizing freight routes for cost efficiency and faster transit times.
- Cross-Border Logistics Specialists: Facilitating seamless movement of goods across SEA.
- Customs Clearance Specialists: Ensuring compliance with evolving trade regulations and tariff structures.
- Digitization & Tech-Driven Hiring
Freight forwarding firms are investing in advanced logistics technologies, leading to increased demand for talent with expertise in:
- Logistics Tech Platforms: Proficiency in Transportation Management Systems (TMS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) for enhanced visibility and automation.
- E-commerce Logistics: Supporting the expansion of online trade in the SEA region.
- AI & Data Analytics: Optimizing shipping routes and demand forecasting through data-driven insights.
- Rising Competition for Skilled Talent
As SEA emerges as a logistics hub, companies are competing for experienced freight forwarding professionals, leading to:
- Enhanced Compensation Packages: Higher base salaries, better bonuses, and improved perks (e.g., housing allowances, regional travel, remote/hybrid work options).
- Premium Pay for Senior Professionals: Individuals with trade compliance and multimodal logistics expertise command higher salaries.
- Talent Mobility & Regional Expansion
The influx of foreign logistics firms into the SEA region is driving cross-border professional hiring.
- Local Expertise: Companies seek local talent familiar with SEA’s complex logistics networks and trade regulations.
- Cross-Border Assignments: Firms are relocating professionals within the Asia-Pacific to manage growing operations.
Conclusion
The competition for top freight forwarding talent in the SEA region is intensifying. With rapid industry growth and a talent shortage, companies must leverage higher salaries, enhanced benefits, regional hiring strategies, and digital transformation to attract and retain the best professionals. While demand for skilled talent is at an all-time high, this also leads to a fierce war for talent in the industry.
Strategies to Mitigate Talent Shortages:
- Robust Retention Programs: Implement initiatives to keep current employees engaged and satisfied.
- Employee Engagement: Foster a positive work environment through regular feedback and recognition.
- Strong Employer Branding: Build a reputation as a desirable place to work.
- Upskilling and Reskilling: Invest in training programs to develop existing talent and attract new professionals without solely relying on salary increases.
By adopting these strategies, companies can navigate the evolving landscape and secure the talent necessary to thrive in the dynamic SEA logistics market.
About Dilla Saini
Currently the Business Manager for Logistics practice at Connexus Global, Dilla leads the effort in connecting Logistics professionals across APAC. Her core recruitment areas encompass Freight Forwarding, Project Logistics, Third-Party Logistics (3PL) solutions, and the booming E-Commerce Logistics sector.
If you are a candidate or hiring managers in APAC region and would like to have a confidential discussion regarding your career options or simply looking to grow your team within the industry that I am covering, please reach out to me; dilla.saini@connexus-global.com
About Connexus Global
Connexus Global is an Executive Search, Talent Search, and Talent Insights business, supporting clients with strategic talent acquisition across global supply chains. With offices in Singapore, Bangkok, Dubai, and London, we leverage our global networks to provide clients with a competitive talent advantage.
