Trade News

Trade News
16
Dec
Geopolitics remains one of the greatest threats to global supply chains. Is AI the solution? At present, AI is already helping to manage several challenges, including climate change, regional tensions, and trade conflicts. In the face of these and other issues, AI can improve things through predictive analytics, optimized logistics, and better resource allocation. This can help supply chains better work through complexities and align with sustainability and regulatory demands while improving visibility, decision-making, and risk management.
The International Air Transport Association...
09
Dec
The EU’s naval commander is pushing for shipping activity to resume in the Red Sea, saying that under Operation Aspides—and with proper risk management—it would be possible for 15% of ships to return immediately. Part of his argument is that rerouting away from the region undermines the maritime industry’s resilience, adding that coordinated international efforts are needed to maintain secure shipping lanes. One of his recommendations is to transit at night with the Automatic Identification Systems turned off, hindering visual...
02
Dec
Airfreight rates between Europe and the Americas have spiked in recent weeks, pushing up global air cargo prices. The main culprit seems to be reduced cargo capacity on these lanes, coupled with seasonal demand. For example, spot rates from Europe are 23% higher than they were at this time last year. Other key routes, such as Asia to the US and Europe are on the rise as well, although increases there are more moderate.
Sustainability regulations and compliance are an ongoing...
25
Nov
Ocean shippers may face new challenges following Donald Trump’s reelection. Getting the most attention are the proposed tariffs on imports, particularly targeting China. Higher tariffs could lead to heightened front-loading of imports and higher rates. Medium- and long-term impacts on trade routes could include a growing reliance on Mexico as an alternative entry point into the US, and concerns about the general stability of global supply chains. All of which increases the importance of better supply chain planning by importers.
New...
21
Nov
Projects in Georgia, California, and Arizona aim to strengthen America’s leadership in cutting-edge substrate technology for critical industries like AI
Today, the Biden-Harris Administration announced that the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) is entering negotiations to invest up to $300 million in advanced packaging research projects in Georgia, California, and Arizona to accelerate the development of cutting-edge technologies essential to the semiconductor industry. The expected recipients are Absolics Inc. in Georgia, Applied Materials Inc. in California, and Arizona State University...
19
Nov
Donald Trump’s reelection as president of the United States raises considerations for both U.S. and non-U.S. companies importing goods into the country. Specifically, given Trump’s plan to impose “universal baseline tariffs on most foreign products” to “reward domestic production while taxing foreign companies,” what tariffs will be imposed, and what can importers do to protect themselves from the increased financial burden tariffs create? After Trump takes office on Jan. 20, 2025, supply chains most likely will be more expensive, with any...
18
Nov
Canada’s Labour Minister has intervened after talks broke off between the B.C. Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 514, prompting strike action. Ports have been closed in Vancouver and Montreal, raising economic concerns. Both ports have been ordered to resume operations, but the ILWU Local 514 plans to challenge the decision.
The January 15 deadline for the ILA and U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports to negotiate a new contract may be in jeopardy. The sides...
11
Nov
Voters in the U.S. have spoken, and Donald Trump will soon be President again. Much of the pre-election discourse was related to contrasting trade policies between the candidates, many of which will have a large impact on supply chains. Expectations for a second Trump Administration include the likelihood of more protectionist trade policies, more reliance on public/ private partnerships to support infrastructure investments, less regulation, and a different view on labor relations. And, in light of ongoing issues around automation...
Other Chapter News






