FedEx enhances its digital tools, trade expertise, and regional connectivity to help APAC businesses navigate complex customs regulations, diversify markets, and seize new growth opportunities in the evolving global trade environment.
FedEx is ramping up its support for businesses in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region as they navigate an increasingly complex and shifting global trade landscape marked by new customs regulations, tariff changes, and evolving market priorities...
Continue Reading This Article
Enjoy this article as well as all of our content, including reports, news, tips and more.
By registering or signing into your SRM Today account, you agree to SRM Today's Terms of Use and consent to the processing of your personal information as described in our Privacy Policy.
. Recent adjustments in U.S. trade policies, including changes to the de minimis exemption rule, have prompted FedEx to intensify efforts to equip businesses—ranging from small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large multinationals—with the expertise, digital tools, and infrastructure needed to maintain operational efficiencies and unlock growth opportunities.
In response to these regulatory shifts, FedEx conducted a series of country-specific webinars across nine APAC markets, engaging over 3,800 customers. These sessions provided practical guidance on customs clearance, avoiding unexpected costs, and leveraging enhanced shipping automation. Feedback from these webinars revealed that while about one-quarter of APAC businesses still see the U.S. as their primary export market, more than 40% are looking to diversify their trade focus, with 22% targeting Intra-Asia trade and 21% aiming for European markets in the coming year. Cost control and duty visibility have emerged as key concerns, with 25% of businesses seeking clarity on pre-shipment duties, taxes, and Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) disbursement fees. Nonetheless, regulatory volatility remains a significant barrier, with 27% of companies struggling to keep up with rapid changes in trade rules.
Salil Chari, senior vice president of Marketing and Customer Experience for Asia Pacific at FedEx, highlighted the company’s role as a trusted trade partner dedicated to helping customers maintain seamless market access. He emphasised the integration of deep regulatory expertise, innovative digital solutions, and the strength of FedEx’s global network as critical enablers for APAC businesses to improve transparency around costs, smooth customs clearance processes, and confidently pursue new growth avenues across the region and Europe.
To address the growing demand for trade guidance and supply chain diversification support, FedEx is expanding its comprehensive suite of services tailored to the evolving needs of APAC businesses. Nearly a quarter of surveyed companies expressed a desire for direct access to regulatory and trade-compliance experts. FedEx, as one of the largest entry filers in the U.S., provides 24/7 support for shipments moving through over 220 countries and territories. The FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub offers up-to-date information on tariffs, customs policies, documentation requirements, and practical tutorials to help businesses stay compliant.
In parallel, digital innovation is playing a central role in FedEx’s strategy. With over a quarter of APAC businesses calling for automation to speed customs clearance, FedEx has introduced AI-powered tools such as the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code lookup feature and a Customs AI chatbot. These tools assist shippers in accurately classifying items and providing complete descriptions, which reduces delays and enhances compliance. Both solutions are integrated into the FedEx Ship Manager™ platform and are continuously updated to reflect the latest regulatory changes.
Addressing shifting trade corridors, FedEx is strengthening connectivity within the region and toward Europe. The launch of the Go-To Europe Hub in five APAC markets—including Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Singapore—serves as a central resource for small businesses to access local trade insights and leverage FedEx’s export portfolio. To support rising intra-Asia trade, the company has enhanced direct flight routes such as South Korea to Vietnam, linking onwards to the Asia Pacific Hub in Guangzhou, China, and a new route from South Korea to Taiwan, boosting service reliability and delivery speed.
Further initiatives complementing these efforts include targeted webinars for Korean exporters aimed at facilitating entry into European markets by clarifying customs procedures and introducing tailored FedEx logistics solutions for e-commerce and heavyweight freight. Moreover, recognising the import complexities faced by APAC businesses, FedEx has launched the FedEx Import Tool—a single-window automated platform currently available in Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea. This tool provides greater visibility into import shipments and streamlines customs documentation and compliance, supported by proactive notifications and extended shipment tracking.
FedEx’s proactive approach is reflected in the company’s continued investment in infrastructure and digital solutions designed to help APAC businesses adapt to evolving trade policies with agility. By combining regulatory acumen, AI-driven automation, and robust network connectivity, FedEx aims to ease the friction associated with customs clearance and enable its customers to capitalise on emerging trade opportunities both within Asia and in broader international markets.
Businesses interested in staying updated with the latest tariff policy changes and utilising FedEx’s evolving suite of trade solutions are advised to visit the FedEx U.S. Tariff Hub and engage with their local FedEx representatives for tailored assistance.
Source: Noah Wire Services
