US Factory Orders Unexpectedly Drop in September

US Factory Orders Unexpectedly Drop in September

US factory orders rose a less-than-expected 0.2% in September, with the data delayed due to the government shutdown. While durable goods and non-defense capital goods orders held steady, the overall figure suggests a potential slowdown in the manufacturing recovery. The market impact was limited, with investors focusing more on the latest economic indicators and Federal Reserve policy. The modest increase in factory orders reinforces concerns about the pace of economic growth and its implications for future monetary policy decisions.

01/28/2026 International Settlement
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South Koreas Daiso Ends Japanese Partnership to Prioritize Domestic Expansion

South Koreas Daiso Ends Japanese Partnership to Prioritize Domestic Expansion

South Korean AsungHMP invested ₩500 billion to repurchase shares held by Japan's Daiso Industries Co., Ltd., achieving full control of Asungdaiso Corp. This move aims to strengthen local control, eliminate Japanese capital influence, accelerate its localization strategy, and lay the foundation for deepening the Korean market and expanding overseas. Daiso's strong performance growth in recent years has provided the confidence for this strategic transformation. The acquisition signifies a shift towards a more independent and domestically focused approach for the retail chain.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Major Investments Aim to Revive Struggling Rail Intermodal Sector

Major Investments Aim to Revive Struggling Rail Intermodal Sector

Faced with service issues and declining performance, rail and intermodal providers are maintaining record investment levels to address current challenges and strive to return to pre-recession performance. However, experts point out that simply increasing investment may not fundamentally solve the problems. What's more important is how to effectively translate capital into tangible operational improvements. The key lies in optimizing processes, embracing technology, and fostering collaboration across the supply chain to maximize the return on investment and achieve sustainable operational efficiency.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Bipartisan Bill Proposes Modernizing Short Line Railroad Tax Credits

Bipartisan Bill Proposes Modernizing Short Line Railroad Tax Credits

A bipartisan group of U.S. Senators introduced legislation to update the short line railroad tax credit. The bill focuses on adjusting the credit calculation to better reflect current costs and incorporates an inflation index. The ASLRRA commended the effort, stating it would incentivize private capital investment in railroad upgrades, enhance transportation efficiency, and benefit businesses and communities. This update aims to modernize the tax credit and encourage continued investment in crucial short line rail infrastructure, supporting economic growth and efficient freight movement.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Niger Customs Modernizes HR to Boost Collaboration

Niger Customs Modernizes HR to Boost Collaboration

With the support of the WCO-WACAM project, Niger Customs has initiated a human resources modernization transformation. Through change management and communication activities, it aims to increase awareness and support for modernization both internally and externally. By establishing a competency-based HRM system, Niger Customs seeks to improve work efficiency and employee quality, promote economic development, and provide a reference for other developing countries. This initiative highlights the importance of investing in human capital for effective customs administration and national development.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tianjin and Riyadh Strengthen Ties Via Trade Culture

Tianjin and Riyadh Strengthen Ties Via Trade Culture

This paper analyzes the geographical distance, cultural differences, and economic and trade cooperation between Tianjin and Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. Despite the vast distance and significant cultural disparities, close cooperation exists in areas such as oil imports, chemical investment, and steel trade. In the context of globalization, strengthening exchanges and cooperation between Tianjin and Saudi Arabia is of great significance. This collaboration fosters mutual benefits and contributes to the broader development of both regions, promoting economic growth and understanding.

02/02/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini Overhauls HR to Improve Trade Facilitation

Eswatini is addressing trade facilitation challenges by reforming its human resource management system. With WCO support, the SRA conducted a 'People Development Diagnostic' to assess capacity gaps and committed to adopting competency-based management. By building competency models, optimizing training programs, improving performance management, and planning career development, Eswatini aims to enhance customs efficiency and promote economic development. This initiative serves as a valuable example for other developing countries seeking to modernize their customs operations and leverage human capital for improved trade outcomes.

02/03/2026 Customs Knowledge
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ISM Forecasts Steady Growth for US Manufacturing and Services

ISM Forecasts Steady Growth for US Manufacturing and Services

The latest Supply Chain Planning Forecast from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) indicates growth in both the US manufacturing and service sectors in 2024, with optimism extending into 2025. Manufacturing capital expenditures exceeded expectations, and all sub-sectors within the service industry experienced growth. The report highlights key trends in areas such as prices, employment, and capacity, providing valuable insights for business decision-makers. It offers a positive outlook for the overall economic landscape based on these sectoral improvements and projections.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Manufacturing Rebounds As Services Sector Expands ISM

US Manufacturing Rebounds As Services Sector Expands ISM

The ISM report indicates a diverging growth outlook for the US manufacturing and service sectors in 2025. Manufacturing is projected for a solid recovery, with anticipated growth in both revenue and capital expenditures. The service sector is expected to continue expanding, albeit with a slight decrease in capacity utilization. The report provides valuable insights for businesses and governments in formulating strategic decisions. It highlights the distinct trajectories of these key economic sectors and offers a basis for informed planning and resource allocation.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Ports See Record Container Volumes As Demand Outpaces Capacity

US Ports See Record Container Volumes As Demand Outpaces Capacity

S&P Global Market Intelligence reports a continued rise in U.S. container freight volumes, up 13.4% year-over-year in September. While consumer goods demand remains robust, capital goods growth is slowing. Experts anticipate a stronger 2024, but supply chain challenges persist, requiring attention to labor disputes, geopolitical risks, and the impact of climate change. A 4.1% growth is projected for Q1 2025. These factors will significantly influence the future performance of the container freight industry and overall economic stability.

02/04/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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