DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026

Based on more than 9 million data points tracking international flows of trade, capital, information, and people, the report provides one of the most comprehensive views of globalization available—making it an essential resource for businesses with cross-border growth ambitions.

Global Trade in 2026: Holding Firm in an Era of Uncertainty

Despite a volatile 2025 shaped by tariff increases, geopolitical tensions, and ongoing uncertainty across global supply chains, international trade proved more resilient than many expected. The DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026 shows that the world’s level of globalization held steady at 25% last year—matching the record high first reached in 2022. In other words, cross-border flows of goods, capital, information, and people have not retreated. Businesses may be adapting, but they are not stepping back from global markets.

Trade performance in 2025 was particularly notable. Global goods trade grew faster than in any year since 2017 (excluding the pandemic rebound). Early in the year, U.S. importers accelerated shipments ahead of new tariff increases, while China redirected exports toward non-U.S. markets—helping sustain overall global trade volumes. At the same time, rising investment in AI infrastructure drove significant growth in trade for semiconductors, data transmission equipment, and other AI-related products. According to WTO estimates, these categories accounted for 42% of goods trade growth in the first three quarters of the year.

Looking ahead, higher tariffs are expected to moderately slow—but not reverse—global trade expansion. Global goods trade is projected to grow at an average annual rate of 2.6% through 2029, broadly in line with the past decade. Importantly, most global trade flows do not involve the United States, and many countries are actively diversifying trade partnerships and negotiating new agreements. As a result, global trade continues to span longer distances and strengthen connections between international markets.

All of which points to a positive outlook for cross-border business growth. Global trade is not retreating—it is evolving. Companies that understand where trade flows are accelerating and which markets are strengthening ties will be best positioned to capture new opportunities. That’s where the insights from the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026 become invaluable.

Key Takeaways from the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026

The report has the insights to help your business find new markets – DHL Express has the international logistics expertise to get you there.

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