The Morning Brief Corner Office Conversation with Tobias Meyer, CEO, DHL Group
Dec 29, 2025
Tobias Meyer, the CEO of DHL Group, brings his extensive expertise in logistics to shed light on the evolving landscape of global trade. He discusses the end of trade outpacing GDP and the complexities introduced by shifting trade policies, particularly between the U.S. and China. Meyer highlights DHL's agile strategies, including investments in India and the challenge of high logistics costs. He emphasizes the role of technology in logistics resilience and addresses the pressing need for decarbonization in the sector.
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Distance Traveled In Trade Is Rising
- DHL's data shows goods are traveling further, not retreating, with global trade distances high in early 2025.
- Meyer warns that heavy trade barriers limit innovation and competitiveness because advanced production still needs global inputs.
Geopolitics Is Reshaping Supply Chains
- Meyer describes a bifurcation driven by US–China geopolitical conflict and shrinking bilateral trade.
- US trade measures also affect other allies and raise questions about consistent policy objectives.
Structure Built For Agility
- DHL kept five divisions separate to remain agile and resilient in volatile conditions.
- Meyer credits the structure for enabling rapid asset shifts like moving aircraft and flexing national express networks.