Citi(US:C)2025-05-16 05:29Investment Rating - The report indicates a positive outlook for overall exports in May, driven by the Phase 1.5 Deal between the US and China, suggesting a stabilization in shipping to the US [1]. Core Insights - Overall exports from China softened marginally into May, with container export volume dropping by 5.0% year-on-year during the week of May 3-9, down from high single-digit growth at the end of April [1][7]. - Cargo throughput at Chinese ports grew by 4.2% year-on-year in the week ending May 11, also a decrease from previously high single-digit growth [1][11]. - Shipping to the US stabilized and showed signs of recovery at the end of April, continuing into May, although the data post-May 12 did not reflect significant improvements [1]. - There is potential for further growth if the reported surge in shipping orders materializes in the data [1]. - Exports to non-US markets softened, and trade rerouting may temporarily halt following the Phase 1.5 Deal [1]. Summary by Sections Export Performance - Container export volume decreased by 5.0% year-on-year during the week ending May 9, compared to a previous growth of 9.8% year-on-year [7]. - Cargo throughput at ports increased by 4.2% year-on-year in the week ending May 11, down from 9.1% year-on-year previously [11]. Shipping Trends - Shipping to the US showed stabilization and a slight increase at the end of April, continuing into May, with a year-on-year increase of 14.6% in container departures for the US during the 15 days ending May 13 [10]. - The data indicates that shipping orders may increase, which could positively impact future export volumes [1].