East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have signed a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement guarantees wage increases for dockworkers and provides a framework for port automation. It aims to achieve labor harmony, improve port efficiency, stabilize the supply chain, and promote international trade. This agreement is expected to foster a more predictable and productive environment for maritime commerce along these crucial waterways.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chain NRF Seeks White House Aid

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chain NRF Seeks White House Aid

The National Retail Federation (NRF), leading 177 industry associations, is urgently calling on the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential East Coast port strike on October 1st. The threatened strike would severely disrupt the US supply chain and economy. The NRF emphasizes the need for swift White House action to facilitate an agreement between the parties and ensure the smooth flow of goods.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Saudi Arabia Invests 35B in Pokmon Go to Boost Middle East Ecommerce

Saudi Arabia Invests 35B in Pokmon Go to Boost Middle East Ecommerce

Saudi Arabia's significant investment in acquiring the developer of 'Pokemon Go' signals its ambition to become a gaming hub. Driven by the 'Vision 2030' initiative, this presents a new opportunity for cross-border e-commerce sellers to tap into the Middle Eastern gaming market. The acquisition highlights Saudi Arabia's commitment to diversifying its economy and fostering a thriving gaming ecosystem, potentially opening doors for international businesses seeking to capitalize on the region's growing interest in interactive entertainment.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

East Coast Port Strike Threatens Supply Chains Retailers Seek White House Aid

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 industry associations, has sent a letter to the White House urging government intervention in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). They are seeking to avert a potential port strike on October 1st, emphasizing the devastating economic impact it would have. The letter highlights the urgency of the situation and implores retailers to proactively address supply chain risks in anticipation of potential disruptions. The NRF underscores the need for a swift resolution to avoid further exacerbating existing supply chain vulnerabilities.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Strike Fears Prompt US Ports to Prepare for Import Surge

East Coast Strike Fears Prompt US Ports to Prepare for Import Surge

US import volume may surge in August due to potential strikes at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. Retailers are taking precautions, diverting shipments to West Coast ports. Negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance have stalled, increasing the risk of a strike. The Red Sea crisis is also impacting supply chains. Full-year throughput for 2024 is projected to increase by 12.1% compared to 2023, potentially reflecting these preemptive measures and overall increased demand despite ongoing global challenges.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal With Wage Automation Terms

East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal With Wage Automation Terms

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year agreement covering 36 ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement includes record wage increases and automation protections, averting a potential port shutdown. This provides a significant boost to labor relations and is important for the stability and development of the U.S. supply chain. The deal addresses concerns about job security in the face of increasing automation, ensuring a balance between technological advancement and workforce stability.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria Revises Tariffs to Align With Afcfta Trade Pact

Nigeria is upgrading its tariff system in collaboration with the WCO and ECOWAS to prepare for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This modernization aims to improve trade efficiency, combat smuggling, and promote regional integration. The updated system will streamline customs procedures and enhance compliance with international standards, ultimately facilitating smoother trade flows and contributing to Nigeria's economic growth within the AfCFTA framework. This initiative signifies Nigeria's commitment to leveraging the opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and strengthening its position as a key player in African trade.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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