West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

West Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal Amid Ongoing Congestion Challenges

The Pacific Maritime Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union reached a tentative agreement on a new five-year contract for West Coast ports, aiming to resolve port congestion and restore reputation. Details are yet to be released, but clearing backlogs and regaining shipper confidence remain challenges. Automation issues and supply chain resilience are key concerns. Future labor-management cooperation, increased efficiency, and comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure the long-term prosperity of the ports.

01/22/2026 Logistics
Read More
Fedex Averts Strike As UPS Labor Dispute Threatens Holiday Deliveries

Fedex Averts Strike As UPS Labor Dispute Threatens Holiday Deliveries

FedEx pilots and management reached a new six-year agreement, featuring pay raises, bonuses, and enhanced benefits, ensuring operational stability during the peak holiday shipping season. Conversely, UPS pilots are potentially initiating a strike, posing a threat to global supply chains. The labor relations dynamics between these two air cargo giants will impact industry competition and market stability. This contrast highlights the different approaches to labor negotiations and their potential consequences on service reliability and the broader economy.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Over Automation Dispute

East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Over Automation Dispute

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed negotiations to avert a potential port strike. A key point of contention is the use of automated equipment, with the ILA fearing job losses for dockworkers. Failure to reach an agreement could cripple ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts, disrupting the supply chain. Both parties need to find a balance between improving efficiency and protecting workers' rights to maintain supply chain stability.

01/18/2026 Logistics
Read More
Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

Namibia Enhances Trade Efficiency with Zambias ASYCUDA Expertise

The Namibian Revenue Agency (NamRA) benchmarked the ASYCUDA World system at the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), learning best practices in electronic payments and valuation control. This aims to enhance NamRA's automation, effectively implement the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, and promote trade development. This collaboration exemplifies South-South cooperation and highlights the WCO's role in advancing global trade facilitation. NamRA seeks to improve its customs processes by adopting ZRA's successful strategies, ultimately contributing to increased efficiency and reduced trade costs.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

WCO Backs Ugandas Trade Reforms to Boost Economy

The WCO assisted Uganda in implementing the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, enhancing customs capabilities. This support focused on optimizing strategic planning, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and risk management. A multi-year development plan was also formulated to guide Uganda Customs in its modernization efforts, streamlining processes and improving efficiency in line with international standards. The collaboration aims to facilitate trade and boost economic growth in Uganda through enhanced customs procedures and improved border management.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

Debt Ceiling Deal Eases Supply Chain Strains Amid Economic Uncertainty

The US debt ceiling agreement averted a potential economic crisis, offering a respite for supply chains. However, challenges like inflation, labor shortages, geopolitical risks, and insufficient supply chain resilience persist. Businesses should diversify suppliers, strengthen inventory management, invest in supply chain digitalization, enhance risk management, and focus on sustainability. By improving supply chain resilience and adaptability, companies can thrive in future competition. Addressing these vulnerabilities is crucial for long-term stability and mitigating future economic shocks.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
West Coast Port Labor Dispute Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Aid

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Aid

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has sent a letter to President Biden, urging the White House to intervene in the stalled West Coast port labor negotiations. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have failed to reach an agreement, raising the possibility of port closures or strikes, which could severely impact the supply chain and economy. The Chamber urges the White House to appoint an independent mediator to avert a potential economic disaster.

01/21/2026 Logistics
Read More
WCO Prioritizes Trade Recovery Innovation Amid Global Challenges

WCO Prioritizes Trade Recovery Innovation Amid Global Challenges

World Customs Organization (WCO) Secretary General Kunio Mikuriya held an online meeting with representatives from Geneva Customs to discuss how customs administrations can promote trade facilitation, build sustainable supply chains, and contribute to global trade prosperity in the context of global economic recovery. The discussion focused on leveraging technological innovation, fostering international cooperation, and effectively implementing the Trade Facilitation Agreement. These efforts aim to streamline customs procedures, reduce trade costs, and ultimately support the growth of international commerce.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

WTO Trade Deal Advances with World Customs Organization Support

The WCO Working Group on Trade Facilitation Agreement emphasized the WCO's crucial role in implementing the TFA. Discussions centered on supporting global trade flow through tools and initiatives like National Trade Facilitation Committees, Coordinated Border Management, Time Release Studies, and the Mercator Programme. The meeting also approved a study tool designed to assist members in submitting national practice case studies easily incorporated into implementation guidelines. This aims to further streamline trade processes and enhance efficiency at borders worldwide.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Rail Unions Assess Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

US Rail Unions Assess Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

The proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has sparked controversy within US railroad unions. BLET and BMWED, representing over half of unionized employees, state that most members oppose the merger, fearing layoffs, wage reductions, and other negative impacts. The unions are calling for the protection of employee rights and urging regulators to conduct a thorough assessment of the merger's potential consequences. They emphasize the need for guarantees safeguarding workers' interests in any final agreement.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More