
International trade remains a central pillar of the world economy. In 2023, 21% of the value of all goods and services produced was traded internationally, just shy of the all-time high of 22%.
U.S.–China ties continue to diminish, but they comprise a small part of the world’s international flows. Direct trade between the U.S. and China fell from 3.5% of global goods trade in 2016 to 2.6% in 2024 (Jan–Jul).
Rival geopolitical blocs show some evidence of weakening ties, mainly because of shifts in Russia’s international flows. The share of world trade crossing between close allies of the U.S. and China and the opposing bloc fell from 13% in 2016 to 10% in 2024, but excluding Russia only from 11% to 10%.
Countries that are neither close allies of the U.S. nor of China grew their share of world trade from 42% in 2016 to 47% in 2024, with the United Arab Emirates, India, Viet Nam, Brazil, and Mexico seeing especially large trade share gains over this period.
Regionalization is not overtaking globalization. During the first seven months of 2024, goods trade traversed the longest average distance on record (4,970 km) and the share taking place inside major world regions fell to a new low of 51% (considering data extending back to 2001).

As one of the world’s leading logistics companies, we strive to be at the forefront of sustainability in the logistics industry. Our first GoGreen products and greenhouse gas emission efficiency targets were launched back in 2008. In addition, we are dedicated to upholding high social and governance standards1) globally.

These cutting-edge products and solutions can empower you to reduce your transportation & distribution and logistics related greenhouse gas emissions through the use of alternative transport solutions and sustainable fuels.
DHL Group commits to reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the lowest possible level by 2050, which aligns with the latest climate science. Any remaining unavoidable emissions will be offset through recognized permanent carbon removal and storage measures approved by SBTi.
With DHL by your side, you can reduce GHG emissions in your supply chain, while still maintaining high levels of service quality and efficiency.
