US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

US Container Imports Jump in February As Supply Chain Strains Persist

Panjiva reports a 6.9% year-over-year increase in US container imports for February, but a 5.5% decrease compared to January. However, the daily average import volume reached a new high. Energy imports surged, while IT imports declined. Experts remain uncertain about the full-year trend, emphasizing the need to monitor inflation, consumer spending habits, and geopolitical factors. Shipping companies are adjusting their strategies to address future challenges and uncertainties in the global trade landscape.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Layoffs Rise As Job Market Shows Economic Strain

US Layoffs Rise As Job Market Shows Economic Strain

US layoffs in November decreased month-over-month but still rose year-over-year, reaching a new high since 2022. The total number of layoffs this year has surged, while hiring plans have shrunk dramatically to their lowest level since 2010. Macroeconomic factors, technological changes, and industry adjustments are the primary drivers. Individuals should enhance their skills, companies should prioritize employee development, and the government should introduce supportive policies to collectively address the employment challenges.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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X5 Groups 2025 Revenue Jumps on Hard Discount Growth

X5 Groups 2025 Revenue Jumps on Hard Discount Growth

Russian retail giant X5 Group reported its 2023 performance, with total revenue reaching 4.64 trillion rubles, an increase of 18.8% year-on-year. Digital business revenue was strong, and comparable store sales grew by 11.4%. The discount brand "Chizhik" performed exceptionally well, with revenue soaring by 42.2%, becoming a major growth driver. X5 Group's total order volume increased significantly throughout the year, and a large number of new suppliers were added, consolidating its market position.

02/05/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Vale Predicts Global Seaborne Iron Ore Demand Will Reach 1.4 Billion Tons Next Year

Vale Predicts Global Seaborne Iron Ore Demand Will Reach 1.4 Billion Tons Next Year

Vale predicts that global seaborne iron ore demand will reach 1.35 to 1.4 billion tons this year, as future new supply is limited, with prices expected around $50 per ton. Recently, due to declining steel demand in China, spot iron ore prices have fallen below $40, reaching a ten-year low. Despite pressure on global iron ore supply, increasing demand outside of China may offset this. Additionally, the reduction in new supply is one of the key factors.

12/30/2023 Logistics
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US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

According to the Descartes Global Shipping Report, US imports in August decreased by 3% month-over-month but remained high, up 12.9% year-over-year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This high import volume exacerbates port congestion, with delays increasing at the seven major ports. Chinese imports remain a significant driver, growing by 17.2%. The report reveals a slight decrease in the West Coast ports' share and a general increase in port transportation delays. Addressing port congestion requires increased infrastructure investment, optimized operations, and improved inland transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Q2 Intermodal Volumes Rise on Strong International Demand

Q2 Intermodal Volumes Rise on Strong International Demand

Multimodal transport volume increased by 8.2% year-on-year in the second quarter, reaching a new high in recent years, with international container business leading the way. The report reveals factors such as economic recovery, increased port throughput, and potential labor issues. Experts recommend paying attention to market dynamics, optimizing service networks, and seizing opportunities to win in the second half of the year. Focus on adapting to changing conditions to maximize growth in the multimodal transport sector.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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EU Moves to End Tax Exemptions for Small Parcels Targeting Chinese Ecommerce

EU Moves to End Tax Exemptions for Small Parcels Targeting Chinese Ecommerce

The EU has prematurely abolished the VAT exemption for low-value shipments, targeting Chinese e-commerce platforms. Under the new regulations, all parcels entering the EU will be subject to tariffs. Chinese sellers should actively respond by optimizing their supply chains, strategically deploying overseas warehouses, and enhancing product value. This will enable compliant and branded operations to meet the new market challenges. Focusing on compliance and brand building is crucial for Chinese sellers to navigate the evolving EU e-commerce landscape.

01/26/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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