Southeast Asias Ecommerce Faces Disruption with Plugos D2C Push

Southeast Asias Ecommerce Faces Disruption with Plugos D2C Push

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.

Trumps Fuel Tax Plan Aims to Rescue Ailing US Highway Fund

Trumps Fuel Tax Plan Aims to Rescue Ailing US Highway Fund

The US federal fuel tax hasn't been adjusted since 1993, leading to chronic funding shortfalls for the Highway Trust Fund. Former President Trump proposed raising the fuel tax, but faced political opposition. This article explores the necessity and feasibility of increasing the fuel tax and emphasizes the importance of finding long-term solutions to support US infrastructure development. It highlights the ongoing debate surrounding sustainable funding mechanisms for maintaining and improving America's transportation network, given the current tax's inadequacy and the growing infrastructure needs.

WCO Korea Partner to Enhance Global Customs Platform Clikc

WCO Korea Partner to Enhance Global Customs Platform Clikc

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Korea Customs Service (KCS) signed an agreement where KCS will provide funding for the WCO's CLiKC! e-learning platform. This funding will support platform upgrades and enhanced functionalities. The upgraded CLiKC! platform will feature updated course content, optimized technology, and expanded multilingual support. The goal is to enhance the professional skills and knowledge of customs officials worldwide, benefiting supply chains and promoting trade facilitation and compliance. This initiative aims to foster greater efficiency and effectiveness within customs administrations globally.

US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

US Infrastructure Crisis Can 1 Trillion Plan Spur Recovery

The trillion-dollar infrastructure plan proposed by the Trump administration has seen little progress, drawing widespread attention. Experts urge focusing on key areas and addressing financing issues through public-private partnerships. The new Secretary of Transportation emphasizes the necessity of reform, but bipartisan disagreement persists in Congress regarding funding sources. The path to upgrading American infrastructure faces both challenges and opportunities. The lack of concrete action raises concerns about its potential impact on economic growth and competitiveness. Finding common ground on funding mechanisms is crucial for moving forward.