A significant surge in imports from Asia, coupled with a decrease in returning cargo and port congestion that hinders the timely repatriation of empty containers, is causing delays in equipment returning to Asia. Meanwhile, industry insiders are skeptical about regulators readily approving the UP-NS deal, despite White House support and a Republican majority on the US Surface Transportation Board, as opposition has emerged. DHL CEO Tobias Meyer indicated that companies are beginning to explore options for offloading export cargo from Asia at ports in the Indian subcontinent for subsequent shipment to the Gulf region, though this has not yet become a widespread trend. Europe's ongoing port congestion is unlikely to be resolved by temporary solutions.