These were ordered to be built by Vale to reduce shipping costs to the Asia Pacific region, so it could compete better with Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton.

FORBES: Vale's Valemax Service Still Faces Hurdles In China

For two, considering the producers in Greece and Ireland, a stronger euro would in fact reduce wage pressures, the cost of imported inputs necessary to produce what they manufacture, plus it would reduce shipping costs.

FORBES: Talk Of the Euro's Coming Demise Is Greatly Exaggerated

By putting production closer to customers, 3M can cut shipping costs, reduce currency risks and customize products to suit regional tastes.

WSJ: 3M Begins Untangling Its 'Hairballs'

"For the shipping industry, even an extra half an hour in port means additional costs and they are trying to reduce this as much as they can, " he said.

BBC: Science & Environment