US imports rose 8% in January, but a decline in capital goods suggests weakening investment. Full-year imports may decline due to tariffs and slowing demand. Importers need to address trade protectionism challenges.
Temu US has launched a domestic direct shipping semi-managed model, allowing one entity to operate one fully managed and three semi-managed stores. A new 9-day shipping option has been added. The final leg of delivery uses online shipping labels, and shipments from China (CN) are exempt from risk control measures. This new model aims to simplify operations for sellers and improve shipping efficiency for cross-border e-commerce on the Temu platform, particularly for those based in China.
Singapore-based eCommerce SaaS platform Plugo has raised $9 million in Series A funding to help D2C brands build independent online stores in Southeast Asia, aiming to challenge Shopify. Plugo will initially launch in Indonesia before expanding across Southeast Asia. The platform provides tools and infrastructure for brands to create and manage their own online presence, offering an alternative to relying solely on marketplaces or existing eCommerce platforms. This funding will accelerate Plugo's growth and product development in the region.
The Mexican pet economy has experienced explosive growth due to the pandemic, with pet e-commerce sales soaring. The number of pet dogs now exceeds the number of children under 9 years old, indicating a huge potential in the pet food market. The Latin American pet economy is driven by increased purchasing power and growing concern for pet health, showing promising prospects. Now is the time to seize the opportunities of the 'pet' economy and tap into the lucrative pet e-commerce market.
Rising LTL freight surcharges now account for nearly 9% of shippers' costs. This paper analyzes the reasons behind the surcharge increases and their impact. It proposes four strategies to address this issue: refined data analysis, optimized transportation planning, carrier negotiation, and strengthened internal management. The aim is to help businesses effectively control LTL transportation costs, improve profitability, and enhance competitiveness. By implementing these strategies, companies can mitigate the financial burden of surcharges and achieve greater efficiency in their LTL shipping operations.
The Trump administration's new tariff policy raises the import duties on Canadian goods to 35% and adjusts the reciprocal tariff structures for approximately 70 trading partners, posing new challenges for the global supply chain.
SWB allows consignees to claim goods with copies post-departure (shipper loses control), while telex release requires shipper's LOI to carriers, retaining cargo control. Choice impacts costs and release procedures based on payment status.
The construction of the Pearl River Delta Hub (Guangzhou New) Airport is about to commence, marking a new phase in the aviation network of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. The new airport will alleviate pressure on Guangzhou Baiyun Airport, helping to develop a world-class airport cluster. It is expected to enhance air service and transportation capacity, promote regional economic development, and strengthen global connectivity.
The World Customs Organization (WCO) Asia Pacific Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB A/P) welcomes new members from Korea and Hong Kong Customs, bolstering its regional cooperation capabilities. ROCB A/P is dedicated to enhancing the skills and capabilities of customs officials and organizations in the Asia Pacific region through capacity building activities, striving towards the vision of 'World-Class Customs'. Thai Customs provides significant support to the office.
North American Class 8 heavy-duty truck orders saw a counter-trend increase in February, ending a period of decline. Key drivers include fleet renewal, rebounding freight capacity, and easing chip shortages. While macroeconomic risks remain a concern, industry confidence is returning, and technological innovation is accelerating. This positive trend suggests a potential shift in the heavy-duty truck market, but careful monitoring of economic conditions is crucial.
