Exporter sentiment remains relatively resilient despite a tougher environment. Around three quarters of exporters still expect growth in 2026, with confidence only slightly below 2025 levels and far steadier than during the tariff shock. 

Companies are responding swiftly through operational adjustments. More than half have changed shipping routes or carriers, accelerated customs clearance, or revised delivery schedules. 

The survey also reveals structural shifts in global trade. Payment risk is rising, particularly in emerging markets, while firms rewire supply chains to reduce geopolitical and tariff exposure—now the top global threat. Trade momentum is shifting away from the US toward Europe and Asia-Pacific (excluding China), while ESG focus weakens and expectations for AI-driven export growth cool amid ROI uncertainty.