On January 15, 2026, cold-rolled stainless steel prices exceeded 14,000 yuan/ton, but market acceptance remained limited, leading to a price inversion in the spot market. Weak downstream demand is restricting further price increases, and prices may face downward pressure in the short term. The balance between supply and demand will determine the long-term price trend. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics.
The Yiwu express delivery industry has adjusted the minimum price to 1.2 yuan to alleviate the phenomenon of excessive competition. This change may impact price trends in the future, but the fundamental issues remain unresolved.
With the support of the Municipal Port Authority and Customs, Qingdao Airport has established an efficient 'air-to-air transfer' cargo system. By July, the throughput of international and domestic cargo and mail grew by 81%, achieving a 29.34% increase in domestic cargo volume and a 2.1% increase in international cargo volume. Qingdao Airport connects logistics companies through high-quality services, promoting the efficient development of air freight.
In 2024, the number of maritime and railway intermodal trains operating on the New Western Land-Sea Corridor exceeded 2,000, a year-on-year increase of 16.8%, supporting regional economic development. Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group actively promotes the marine economy, leading to a significant increase in train transport demand. The goal is to operate 10,000 trains throughout the year, laying the foundation for facilitating a dual circulation market.
Hebei Province has made significant achievements in container throughput, reaching a total of 2.206 million TEUs by the end of November, a year-on-year increase of 34.8%. Huanghua Port has experienced the fastest growth, with an increase of 71.9%. The number of shipping routes has increased to 66, and the throughput is expected to exceed 2.4 million TEUs by the end of the year, setting a new historical record.
The Finnish PRH will increase official intellectual property fees starting January 1, 2026, with an average increase of 5%-10%, and some items exceeding 60%. Companies should assess the cost impact, optimize application and maintenance strategies, and seek professional advice to address this challenge, control costs, and maintain a competitive edge. This fee hike necessitates a proactive approach to intellectual property management to mitigate potential financial burdens and ensure continued innovation.
Road Runner Transportation Systems (RRTS) acquired the Southeast short-haul operations of American Transportation Corporation (TA Transportation). This acquisition aims to expand market share, improve service capabilities, and increase profitability. The deal enhances RRTS's intermodal transportation services in the Southeast region and is expected to increase its 2013 earnings. Analysts suggest that RRTS may continue to pursue acquisitions to refine its service portfolio and further expand its market presence.
U.S. rail freight volume surged to a near 15-year high, with container transport reaching a 16-year peak. This growth is fueled by the cost advantage of fuel. While metal ores experienced an increase, grain shipments saw a decline. The overall increase in rail freight points towards a potential strengthening of the economy as goods movement picks up pace. The high container volumes suggest robust international trade activity as well.
Former US President Trump signed an executive order adjusting import tariff policies, covering exempted commodities like gold and graphite, and taxed goods such as silicon products. This reflects the US strategic orientation on key raw material supply chains. The move will have a profound impact on global mineral trade and the industrial silicon industry. Businesses need to pay close attention to these changes and their potential consequences.
Data from the Association of American Railroads reveals mixed trends in U.S. rail freight for the week ending November 25th. Carload traffic declined year-over-year, likely due to the Thanksgiving holiday. However, intermodal traffic saw an increase. Year-to-date figures show a slight increase in carload traffic and a minor decrease in intermodal volume. To foster sustainable growth, railway companies should focus on service innovation, and the government should prioritize infrastructure investments.
