The Pulse of Logistics: How China’s Golden Week Impacts Global Supply Chains

China’s Golden Week 2025 (October 1–7, 2025) is just around the corner, and as every year, it is set to reshape the landscape of international logistics. Importers, exporters, and trade professionals will face a period of high volatility in international freight rates and supply chain planning.

Golden Week in China: a holiday with worldwide logistics impact

Golden Week takes place every year at the beginning of October in China, coinciding with National Day. In 2025, it will be observed from October 1 to October 7. During this week, factories and offices either close completely or operate with minimal staff. The immediate effects are:

• Surge in demand for ocean freight space before the holiday

• Escalation of international freight rates

• Port congestion and transit delays once operations resume.

Key advice for importers and exporters

1. Anticipate orders and coordinate with freight forwarders and suppliers in China

2. Stay flexible with departure dates to manage rising rates.

3. Prepare contingency plans for delays or lack of available space.

In short, Golden Week triggers a domino effect on maritime transport, container availability, and service reliability across global logistics

Other factors shaping international logistics in 2025

Beyond the Chinese holiday, other forces are influencing the market:

1. Geopolitical tensions: Conflicts in the Red Sea are forcing carriers to reroute vessels via the Cape of Good Hope, significantly increasing costs and transit times.

2. Port congestion and strikes: Ongoing congestion in key hubs and labor strikes (such as those on the U.S. East Coast) cause a global ripple effect across supply chains.

3. Uncertain global economy

Conclusions: planning and information as a competitive advantage

Although inflation shows signs of stabilizing in some markets, global economic growth remains fragile. This directly affects demand for goods and therefore the volume of international trade.

The global logistics landscape today is shaped by seasonal peaks, geopolitical risks, and economic pressures. To succeed, logistics professionals must rely on three pillars:

• Up-to-date information: track market trends and global events.

• Anticipatory planning: book shipments in advance to secure space.

• Strategic flexibility: prepare alternative routes and backup plans.

At SPARX Logistics, we understand that international logistics is not only about moving cargo, but about ensuring business continuity in highly volatile scenarios.