US Port Traffic Drops As Trade Tensions Slow Imports

US Port Traffic Drops As Trade Tensions Slow Imports

Descartes' Global Shipping Report reveals a significant decline in U.S. container imports in May, with a sharp drop in imports from China due to trade policies. The East Coast and Gulf Coast ports gained market share, while West Coast ports saw a decrease. The report highlights the challenges and shifts in U.S. port throughput amid escalating trade friction. This includes the impact of tariffs and geopolitical tensions on import volumes and the redistribution of cargo traffic across different port regions.

01/15/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Steel Tariffs Rise As Yearend Logistics Strain Trade

US Steel Tariffs Rise As Yearend Logistics Strain Trade

The combination of adjusted tariff policies in the North American market and year-end logistics bottlenecks presents challenges for businesses. This report analyzes the impact of rising US shipping rates, stricter customs inspections, and new tariff policies in Canada and Mexico. Addressing year-end logistics characteristics, it offers recommendations including shipping strategies, compliant declarations, cost assessment, and advance planning. These suggestions aim to help businesses navigate the complexities and mitigate potential disruptions during this period.

01/15/2026 Logistics
Read More
Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport Aims to Modernize US Customs for Faster Trade

Flexport's Tom Gould joins the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Commercial Operations Advisory Committee (COAC) to advance customs modernization and address the disconnect between supply chains and customs operations. He will focus on system upgrades, data interoperability, and data science empowerment to improve clearance efficiency, reduce costs for businesses, and simplify global trade. This initiative aims to streamline processes, enhance communication, and leverage technology to create a more efficient and responsive customs environment, ultimately benefiting businesses involved in international commerce.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Trade Rep Tai Seeks Balance in China Relations

US Trade Rep Tai Seeks Balance in China Relations

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, in her CSIS speech, outlined the U.S.'s new trade strategy towards China, emphasizing a "results-oriented" approach. She highlighted the importance of China's compliance with existing trade agreements and the potential use of trade remedies. While expressing willingness to cooperate with China on issues like climate change, she warned that the U.S. will take further action if China does not alter its trade policies. The focus is on ensuring fair competition and holding China accountable for its commitments.

01/19/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Red Sea Crisis and US Midterms Disrupt Global Trade

Red Sea Crisis and US Midterms Disrupt Global Trade

The Red Sea crisis and the US midterm elections are injecting uncertainty into global trade, leading to soaring freight rates and testing supply chains. Businesses should diversify their supply chains, plan ahead, strengthen collaboration, and embrace digital transformation to turn challenges into opportunities and remain competitive in the global trade landscape. This proactive approach is crucial for navigating the current turbulent environment and mitigating potential disruptions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

US Businesses Consumers Hit Hard by Trade War Tariffs

Data from the 'Tariffs Hurt the Heartland' organization reveals the negative impact of the US-China trade war on the US economy. American consumers and businesses have paid an additional $38 billion in tariffs. These tariffs have led to increased prices, decreased corporate profits, and disruptions to global trade patterns. Businesses should diversify supply chains and optimize production processes, while governments should reduce tariffs and provide subsidies to jointly address these challenges. The trade war's economic consequences necessitate collaborative solutions to mitigate its adverse effects.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
USEU Trade Tensions Escalate Ahead of August Tariff Deadline

USEU Trade Tensions Escalate Ahead of August Tariff Deadline

The US Commerce Secretary stated that despite ongoing US-EU trade negotiations, the plan to impose tariffs on EU goods entering the US on August 1st will proceed as scheduled. This will significantly impact the automotive industry, consumers, and global supply chains. The EU may retaliate, potentially escalating trade frictions and posing new challenges to the global economy. Whether the two sides can reach an agreement before August 1st to avoid a trade war is a key concern.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Trump Administration Exempts 200 Agricultural Goods from Tariffs

Trump Administration Exempts 200 Agricultural Goods from Tariffs

US President Trump announced tariff exemptions for over 200 agricultural products, aiming to reduce business costs, stabilize consumer prices, and foster trade relations through trade agreements. This reflects a shift in US trade policy, emphasizing negotiation and cooperation. However, potential risks require attention. Data analysts need to conduct in-depth quantitative assessments of its impact on businesses, consumers, trade, and industries, while also forecasting potential risks. This move signifies a strategic adjustment in navigating international trade dynamics.

01/08/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
Maersk Reports US Tariff Impacts Trade Strategies Amid Global Challenges

Maersk Reports US Tariff Impacts Trade Strategies Amid Global Challenges

Maersk recently revealed that the average effective tariff in the U.S. currently stands at 21%, significantly down from 54% in April. The company anticipates that global trade and consumer confidence in the coming months will be influenced by a potential trade agreement expected to be reached by July 9. Clients across various industries are gradually reducing their dependence on China, demonstrating the flexibility of businesses to adapt to changes in international trade.

08/06/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

US Japan Philippines Sign Trade Pact to Ease Shipping Delays

The United States recently signed a new trade agreement with Japan and the Philippines to promote economic cooperation and enhance trade fluidity. However, with the increase in trade, serious congestion in trans-Pacific shipping has emerged, necessitating measures to ensure transport efficiency and ensure mutual benefits for the three countries.

07/24/2025 Logistics
Read More