DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026

At first glance, the world seems to be pulling apart. But the data tells a different story. Globalisation reached a record high level of 25% in 2022 and remained stable through 2025. Even as the world has become more complex and volatile, the world is not disconnecting but evolving.  The report projects a positive outlook into global interconnectedness, providing a grounded perspective on the state of globalisation to facilitate informed decision making.

Key takeaways from the DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026:

The DHL Global Connectedness Report 2026 offers rich insights and many takeaways that help organisations understand the world’s trading trends. In an increasingly globalised and connected world, it is imperative to be aware of changes to steer your business forward.

1. Singapore remains the world’s most globally connected country

Singapore ranks #1 globally for overall connectedness. Its strong flows. trade, capital, information, and people continue to position Singapore as a strategic hub for regional and global business. This reinforces Singapore’s role as a highly trusted, high-efficiency gateway for companies looking to reach Asia and the world.

In a time of geopolitical volatility, Singapore’s reliability and openness give businesses a clear competitive advantage in market access, supply chain resilience, and global partnership building. With a broad global logistics network in 220+ countries and deep expertise in complex international shipments, DHL helps Singapore businesses turn the country’s connectivity into a tangible strategic advantage.

2. U.S.-China ties continue to diminish

Since 2016, the share of U.S. trade, capital, information, and people flow with China and vice versa has fallen.

Despite this continuous decline, U.S. and China’s allies are not disengaging from one another, and most global business continues to occur among friendly or geopolitically neutral countries. This means the world is not splitting into rival blocs, even if U.S.–China ties weaken. Additionally, Singapore's global connectivity and strategic neutrality position makes it a safe and trusted base for companies navigating U.S.–China tensions. Singaporean companies can leverage this, benefiting directly from investments pouring into ASEAN as companies reduce over-reliance on a single country.1

3. Goods trade grew faster in 2025

Excluding the Covid-19 pandemic period, goods trade is the highest it has been since 2017. US buyers rushed to import goods ahead of tariff hikes, China increased exports to non-US destinations, and investment in AI infrastructure boosted trade in goods such as semiconductors and data transmission equipment. This is where DHL Express comes into play — in order to service an increasingly interconnected and globalised world, our services help connect people and goods all over world. DHL’s specialised logistics for technology, electronics, and semiconductors positions us as the partner of choice for fast-growing tech trade.

4. The deglobalisation myth

Headline tensions such as tariffs, tech restrictions, geopolitics do not reflect global reality. Meanwhile, new trade agreements and diversified supply chains continue to reinforce global connectedness.

Some common errors and biases that may make deglobalisation more severe include:

• We assume that developments in major economies like the U.S. and China, or in strategic industries such as semiconductors or critical minerals, represent global trends.
• Many people also believe the world was once close to unfettered globalisation, so new restrictions seem more dramatic than they really are.
• Motivated reasoning leads both supporters and critics of globalization to exaggerate small changes to fit their narratives.
• We naturally focus on negative news like tariff hikes; hence we tend to overlook positive developments such as new trade agreements.

Global flows are likely to remain resilient because leaders want to preserve the benefits of globalization while companies are becoming more adaptable to new frictions. Additionally, de-risking still sustains international trade, technology continues to lower barriers, and multipolar economic growth creates more opportunities for cross‑border exchange.

Looking ahead for global trade

As the world’s largest logistics provider, we see these shifts unfolding in real time across industries, markets, and supply chains. The data in the report shows that global connectedness has not only held steady, but continues to be reinforced by countries and companies seeking stability, opportunity, and growth in an increasingly complex environment. Even as geopolitical tensions, technological disruption, and evolving trade patterns reshape how the world does business, the global economy remains deeply interlinked.

For businesses in Singapore and across the region, this is a critical moment. The next wave of globalisation requires organisations to be agile, well‑informed, and supported by partners who can help them navigate uncertainty with confidence. DHL Express plays a central role in this journey. With our unparalleled global network, end‑to‑end visibility, and expertise in cross‑border logistics, we enable companies to adapt quickly, seize new opportunities, and grow sustainably in this ever-changing world.

Whether you are expanding into new markets, strengthening your supply chain resilience, or accelerating growth, DHL Express ensures that your goods move reliably, securely, and efficiently. As businesses become more global, digital, and interconnected, we remain committed to delivering the speed, consistency, and precision needed to support your ambitions.

Open a DHL account today and start your international shipping with DHL Express Singapore. With our trusted global network and expertise in cross‑border logistics, we help your business navigate international trade with confidence. At DHL Express, we deliver fast, reliable and efficient shipping solutions that support your growth in the global marketplace.