Barbados Customs Enhances Efficiency with HR Management Reform

Barbados Customs Enhances Efficiency with HR Management Reform

The Barbados Customs and Excise Department (BCED) is undergoing a competency-based HRM reform in collaboration with the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Aiming to enhance operational efficiency, revenue collection, and stakeholder engagement, BCED is committed to modernizing its talent management practices. This involves developing a competency framework, job catalog, and exploring the establishment of an internal HRM department. By strengthening its human resources, BCED seeks to contribute more effectively to economic development.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Rail Unions Split Over Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

Rail Unions Split Over Union Pacificnorfolk Southern Merger

The proposed $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern faces resistance from labor unions. BLET and BMWED, representing a majority of unionized employees, oppose the deal, citing concerns about potential job losses and weakened union bargaining power. Conversely, the Teamsters Rail Conference supports the merger, believing it will enhance efficiency and create opportunities. The Surface Transportation Board (STB) is currently reviewing the proposal, and its final decision will significantly impact the future of the U.S. railroad industry.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
UPS Teamsters Strike Landmark Labor Deal

UPS Teamsters Strike Landmark Labor Deal

UPS and the Teamsters union reached a five-year agreement, a 'win-win-win' deal focusing on improved compensation and benefits, participation in technological changes, and operational optimization. The agreement aims to enhance employee satisfaction, ensure job security, and restore market confidence. Despite facing market competition and technological transformation challenges, UPS remains optimistic about its future development and strives to gain a competitive edge by maintaining stable labor relations. This agreement is crucial for navigating the evolving logistics landscape.

01/28/2026 Logistics
Read More
Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Mali Customs Adopts Competencybased HR Modernization

Mali Customs, with the support of the World Customs Organization, is committed to modernizing its HRM through GRH reform. This involves diagnosing the existing system and building a competency-based HRM system, including developing job descriptions, competency models, and position descriptions, alongside capacity building initiatives. Despite facing challenges, Mali Customs is actively pushing forward with these reforms to enhance overall effectiveness and better serve national economic development. The reform aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs administration.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
US Retail Sales Jump in January Amid Strong Consumer Spending

US Retail Sales Jump in January Amid Strong Consumer Spending

U.S. retail sales saw solid growth in January, driven by a robust job market, wage increases, and consumer confidence. Online retail continued to lead, with widespread growth across various sectors. However, the retail industry still faces challenges from the pandemic, trade, and economic cycles. Future focus should be on structural changes, embracing digital transformation, and expanding into emerging markets. This growth highlights retail as a key economic engine, dependent on sustained consumer confidence and adaptable strategies.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Manufacturing Orders Surge Boosting Economic Growth

US Manufacturing Orders Surge Boosting Economic Growth

The US Manufacturing PMI surged, with new orders soaring to a ten-year high. Production is steadily increasing, and the job market remains stable. Experts believe global attention is focused on US manufacturing. Supply chain and inventory data also indicate positive signs. Businesses are confident and anticipate strong manufacturing growth, injecting momentum into the US and global economies. This resurgence suggests a robust recovery and paints a promising picture for the manufacturing sector's contribution to overall economic expansion.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Port of Portland Struggles with Megaship Capacity Issues

Port of Portland Struggles with Megaship Capacity Issues

The Port of Portland faces stagnation in its container business due to its inability to accommodate mega-container ships, labor disputes, and hinterland transportation bottlenecks, resulting in job losses and economic losses. West Coast ports generally face challenges from the Panama Canal expansion and a crisis of confidence. To achieve transformation and upgrade, the Port of Portland needs to upgrade infrastructure, rebuild labor relations, expand diversified businesses, strengthen economic linkages with the hinterland, and strive for policy support.

01/29/2026 Port Encyclopedia
Read More
Estes Express Opens New Freight Terminal in Dayton Ohio

Estes Express Opens New Freight Terminal in Dayton Ohio

Estes Express Lines has opened a new freight terminal in Dayton, Ohio, to support regional business growth. This expansion strengthens its operational capabilities within Ohio, creates job opportunities, and signals a positive development trend for the freight industry. By localizing operations, Estes aims to improve service quality and capitalize on economic recovery opportunities, ultimately providing customers with enhanced freight services. The new terminal will streamline logistics and contribute to faster, more reliable deliveries in the region.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
New English Rules Have Minimal Effect on US Trucking Rates Capacity Issues Remain

New English Rules Have Minimal Effect on US Trucking Rates Capacity Issues Remain

Increased US regulation of English proficiency for truck drivers aims to improve safety and job security. Analysis suggests a limited short-term impact on overall freight rates, as the market remains demand-driven. Companies should monitor policy changes, enhance training management, and ensure compliant operations. This regulation focuses on improving communication and reducing accidents, but its immediate effect on pricing is expected to be minimal, with broader economic factors exerting a stronger influence on freight costs.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

East Coast Dockworkers Resist Automation As Contract Expires

The US dockworkers' union and the Maritime Alliance are locked in a stalemate over automation negotiations, with the union fearing job losses. The trade community is concerned about the potential impact on supply chains. Balancing the interests of labor and management is crucial to avoid hindering economic recovery. The impasse highlights the challenges of technological advancements in the workplace and the need for proactive solutions to mitigate negative consequences and ensure a smooth transition for workers in the face of automation.

11/03/2025 Logistics
Read More