Russia Bans 200 Exports Straining Global Supply Chains

Russia Bans 200 Exports Straining Global Supply Chains

In response to Western sanctions, Russia has announced a suspension of exports for over 200 items, including medical and technological equipment, a move poised to disrupt global supply chains. This article analyzes the background, potential impacts, and response strategies to this ban. It emphasizes the importance of supply chain diversification and resilience, highlighting the need to address vulnerabilities. The analysis also underscores the necessity of monitoring geopolitical risks and proactively adapting to evolving global trade dynamics to mitigate potential disruptions.

01/28/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Rail Freight Sees Modest Recovery in Late September

US Rail Freight Sees Modest Recovery in Late September

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload and intermodal traffic both experienced year-over-year growth in late September. Carload traffic increased by 0.9%, with notable gains in nonmetallic minerals, grain, and motor vehicles & parts, while coal, petroleum, and metals declined. Intermodal volume rose by 1.1%. Year-to-date figures show a 2.1% increase in total carload traffic and a 3.5% increase in total intermodal volume. The rail freight market faces both challenges and opportunities, requiring proactive adaptation.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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North American Intermodal Traffic Declines Amid Industry Shifts

North American Intermodal Traffic Declines Amid Industry Shifts

Data from the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) shows a continued decline in North American intermodal volumes, though the rate of decrease is slowing. This downturn is attributed to a combination of macroeconomic conditions, internal industry factors, and geopolitical influences. IANA suggests that challenges and opportunities coexist, identifying cross-border trade as a potential growth area. Businesses need to transform and innovate, improve service quality and efficiency, expand service offerings, embrace technological innovation, and strengthen cooperation and collaboration to succeed in this evolving landscape.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

US Rail Freight Auto Petroleum Up As Coal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight traffic decreased by 7.9% year-over-year for the week ending May 9, while intermodal traffic increased by 3.8%, showing a diverging trend. Shipments of motor vehicles & parts and petroleum products increased, while coal shipments decreased significantly. Year-to-date, rail freight traffic is down 1.8%, and intermodal traffic is up 1.7%. Rail freight companies need to actively transform and expand their intermodal transportation business.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

US Rail Freight Automotive Grain Up As Intermodal Lags

The Association of American Railroads (AAR) reported a mixed performance in U.S. rail freight for the week ending March 21. Traditional carload traffic saw a slight year-over-year decrease, but grain and automotive shipments performed strongly. Intermodal volume, however, bucked the trend and increased. Year-to-date figures show a small increase in carload volume, while intermodal volume experienced a slight decline. The U.S. rail freight market is undergoing a transformation and upgrade, requiring proactive responses to challenges and the seizing of opportunities.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

US Rail Freight Sees Mixed Trends Carloads Rise Intermodal Falls

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carload traffic increased by 2% for the week ending September 17, with coal, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles leading the gains. Intermodal traffic, however, decreased by 7.3%. Year-to-date, carload traffic is up slightly by 0.3%, while intermodal traffic is down 5.1%. Total North American rail volume also declined year-over-year. These diverging trends are influenced by various factors. Railroad companies need to proactively address challenges and seize opportunities in the future.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

US Nonmanufacturing Sector Expands Steadily in May ISM

The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) reported robust growth in the U.S. non-manufacturing sector for May, with the NMI index reaching 56.9, marking the 112th consecutive month of expansion. Eleven industries experienced growth, with a notable increase in the employment indicator. Experts suggest that despite challenges like trade tensions, consumer confidence and low inflation are providing tailwinds for the economy. Overall, the non-manufacturing sector is outperforming the manufacturing sector.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Logistics Sector Rebounds Strongly in June 2025

Logistics Sector Rebounds Strongly in June 2025

The Logistics Manager Index for June 2025 continues to rise, reaching 60.7, indicating a strong recovery in the logistics industry after recent fluctuations. Significant increases in inventory levels and costs have driven the growth of the index, while there is a shrinking trend in warehousing and transportation capacity. Uncertainty regarding future demand and trade policies remains a challenge.

07/07/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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