Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

A Standard Bank Economist Intelligence Unit report reveals that only 22% of companies address child labor in their supply chains, highlighting a lack of corporate social responsibility. The report identifies key priorities and blind spots in corporate action, emphasizing that poverty, lack of education, and weak regulation are the root causes of child labor. It recommends that companies strengthen supply chain due diligence, establish transparent systems, and support educational development. The report calls for collaborative efforts to build a fair and sustainable global economy.

LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

LA and Long Beach Ports Boost Supply Chain Green Efforts

The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are strengthening their collaboration to address global trade challenges by updating their cooperation agreement. This focuses on supply chain logistics, gateway marketing, environmental sustainability, security, and legislative advocacy. Initiatives include the launch of a 'gray chassis pool' to improve container transportation efficiency and plans for a stakeholder summit to resolve freight challenges. The ports are also continuing to advance the Clean Air Action Plan, aiming to create a more efficient, environmentally friendly, and secure port complex.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Retailers Seek White House Help Amid West Coast Port Delays

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid West Coast Port Delays

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is urging the White House to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential port strike. This looming crisis threatens not only the retail industry but also the broader U.S. economy. The NRF, along with 177 trade associations, sent a letter to President Biden emphasizing the need for immediate White House action to facilitate a new agreement and prevent a recurrence of West Coast port congestion.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

With WCO support, Mali Customs initiated a competency-based human resource modernization reform. This aims to build a high-quality, professional workforce through a modern training system, career development system, and integrity policies. The goal is to enhance overall customs performance, strengthen organizational competitiveness, and promote Mali's sustainable economic development. This paper analyzes the reform's background, objectives, key achievements, challenges, and opportunities. It also proposes recommendations for an action plan to further the reform's success and ensure its long-term impact on the Malian customs administration.

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

West Africa Customs Seminar Advances Gender Equality in Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a high-level Gender Equality and Diversity (GED) seminar in Nigeria, empowering customs administrations from four West African countries. By raising awareness of gender mainstreaming, focusing on gender and security issues, and utilizing the GEOAT tool, the seminar assisted customs departments in developing and implementing GED action plans. The aim is to promote trade security, inclusive development, and address the challenges faced by women in cross-border trade. This initiative strengthens customs capacity to better serve all members of society.

Comoros Streamlines Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

Comoros Streamlines Customs with WCO Support to Boost Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) supports Comoros in acceding to the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), which aims to streamline customs procedures and promote trade facilitation. Through national workshops and expert support, the WCO assists Comoros in assessing gaps, developing action plans, and communicating with high-level government officials. This ensures Comoros meets the conditions for joining the RKC by June 2019, embracing a new era of global economy. The initiative helps Comoros modernize its customs practices and integrate more effectively into the international trading system.

US Sanctions Disrupt Venezuela Oil Exports Global Shipping

US Sanctions Disrupt Venezuela Oil Exports Global Shipping

The US is intensifying its efforts to seize tankers linked to Venezuela, targeting its oil export "shadow fleet." This action aims to tighten control over Venezuelan oil resources. While some traders are permitted to export Venezuelan crude, the shipping market landscape may shift due to shorter voyages. Venezuela's oil trade trajectory will continue to impact global oil prices, cargo flows, and refinery profitability. The increased scrutiny and seizures create significant shipping risks for vessels involved in Venezuelan oil trade, potentially disrupting supply chains and increasing insurance costs.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Strategies to Build Connections with Highachievers

Strategies to Build Connections with Highachievers

This article explores how to effectively connect with industry leaders or seasoned experts, gain their favor, and receive assistance. It emphasizes the importance of becoming a client, providing positive feedback, thoughtful gift-giving, sincere gratitude, proactive action, and mutual benefit. Through case studies, the article summarizes four key elements for changing one's destiny: gifting, gratitude, obedience, and profit sharing. The aim is to equip readers with strategies for building relationships with influential figures, ultimately enhancing their personal value and achieving breakthrough in their respective fields.

Wireless Charger Patent Dispute Seizes 81 Ecommerce Stores Assets

Wireless Charger Patent Dispute Seizes 81 Ecommerce Stores Assets

Shenzhen Shangxing Technology Co., Ltd. initiated patent enforcement in the United States regarding its wireless charger, resulting in a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) freezing 81 cross-border e-commerce stores. The patents involved include an invention patent for a foldable wireless charger and multiple design patents. Cross-border sellers are advised to immediately conduct self-inspections, remove potentially infringing products, and seek legal advice to proactively address potential litigation risks. This action highlights the importance of due diligence and IP protection in the global e-commerce market.

US Railroad Mergers Spark Debate on Manufacturing Impact

US Railroad Mergers Spark Debate on Manufacturing Impact

Chris Jahn, President and CEO of the American Chemistry Council (ACC), expressed concerns regarding the proposed merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern, arguing it could weaken competition, harm service, and ultimately impact U.S. manufacturing. The ACC will actively advocate for regulatory action and emphasize the importance of reforms like reciprocal switching to build a more competitive and reliable rail transportation system. The ACC believes these changes are crucial to ensure efficient and cost-effective transportation for the chemical industry and other sectors reliant on rail freight.