U.S. small and mid-sized businesses are accelerating their adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools to manage rising costs and expand internationally, according to a new survey from DHL Express.
The survey, which gathered responses from hundreds of DHL’s U.S. small business customers, found that 57% of respondents cited operational costs as their top internal challenge, driving increased investment in automation and AI. At the same time, only 6% reported problems integrating recent technology, signaling widespread progress in digital transformation.
Small businesses using AI
Despite persistent concerns over trade policy, 68% of businesses say they are meeting or exceeding their performance goals in 2025. And while 67% pointed to tariffs as the leading obstacle to international growth, most continue to pursue global expansion. Europe was the top growth target (35%), followed by Asia (28%) and Latin America (25%).
The survey’s findings are reinforced by the newly released DHL Trade Atlas 2025, produced in partnership with the New York University Stern School of Business. The report projects that global trade will grow more rapidly over the next five years than in the past decade, with emerging economies like India, Vietnam, and the Philippines leading the charge in long-distance trade.
Workforce challenges are easing as well. Just 10% of respondents named talent shortages as a top concern, down significantly from prior years. The shift reflects the increased adoption of hybrid work and greater confidence in staffing stability.
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