Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

Global Brands Urged to Address Child Labor in Supply Chains

A Standard Bank Economist Intelligence Unit report reveals that only 22% of companies address child labor in their supply chains, highlighting a lack of corporate social responsibility. The report identifies key priorities and blind spots in corporate action, emphasizing that poverty, lack of education, and weak regulation are the root causes of child labor. It recommends that companies strengthen supply chain due diligence, establish transparent systems, and support educational development. The report calls for collaborative efforts to build a fair and sustainable global economy.

US Imports Stay Strong Amid Labor Disruptions Supply Chains Resilient

US Imports Stay Strong Amid Labor Disruptions Supply Chains Resilient

Brief strikes at US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports did not prevent continued import growth. The Port Tracker report forecasts sustained high US import volumes, but businesses must focus on supply chain risks and improve resilience. Labor-management cooperation and corporate innovation are key to addressing future challenges. Despite potential disruptions, the overall trend suggests a robust import market demanding proactive risk management strategies for businesses relying on global supply chains.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal but Recovery Challenges Remain

East Coast Ports Secure Labor Deal but Recovery Challenges Remain

A preliminary agreement between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has temporarily averted a supply chain crisis at US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. While an agreement is in place, full port operational recovery will take time, and backlogs and delays are expected to persist in the short term. Industry stakeholders are closely examining the agreement's details. Modernizing port infrastructure remains crucial for enhancing long-term efficiency and resilience to future disruptions.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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US Labor Dept Releases AI Guidelines to Safeguard Workers Rights

US Labor Dept Releases AI Guidelines to Safeguard Workers Rights

The U.S. Department of Labor has released guiding principles for AI application in the workplace. These guidelines aim to help employers consider employee needs, maintain and improve work quality when introducing AI platforms. The principles cover employee empowerment, ethical development, transparent use, rights protection, support for affected employees, and data security. They emphasize a human-centered approach to AI development, aiming to build an intelligent, equitable, and humanized AI workplace.

Fedex Pilots Reach Tentative Deal to Avoid Strike

Fedex Pilots Reach Tentative Deal to Avoid Strike

FedEx has reached a tentative agreement with its pilots, averting a potential strike. However, the details of the agreement remain undisclosed. The company still faces operational, financial, and reputational risks. To navigate global economic uncertainties and market competition, FedEx needs to enhance communication, improve efficiency, and strengthen risk management practices. The agreement, while positive, doesn't eliminate the need for proactive measures to ensure long-term stability and success in the dynamic air transportation industry.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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West Coast Ports Strike Deal to Avoid Supply Chain Disruption

West Coast Ports Strike Deal to Avoid Supply Chain Disruption

The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) reached a tentative agreement on a six-year contract, bringing stability to West Coast ports. This agreement alleviates concerns about supply chain disruptions. However, long-term challenges such as automation, infrastructure, and efficiency remain. Continued cooperation between all parties is necessary to ensure the competitiveness of the ports and meet trade demands. The agreement signals a positive step towards long-term stability but requires ongoing commitment to address underlying issues.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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US and China Report Trade Progress After Highlevel Talks

US and China Report Trade Progress After Highlevel Talks

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stated that she had a constructive call with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng regarding the implementation of the US-China trade agreement, noting positive progress. This high-level dialogue demonstrates both sides' commitment to maintaining and advancing the trade agreement, contributing to global trade stability. The discussion focused on the current state of the agreement and future steps to ensure its continued success, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and cooperation between the two economic powerhouses.

US Exits Paris Pact Strains Supply Chains

US Exits Paris Pact Strains Supply Chains

The US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement has sparked global concern, profoundly impacting freight, logistics, and supply chains. Major shippers had urged the US to remain in the agreement, but to no avail. The Trump administration indicated it would seek renegotiation or a new agreement, while France, Germany, and Italy emphasized the agreement's irreversibility. Global supply chains need to closely monitor the situation and continue to be proactive in sustainable development. The implications of this decision will be felt throughout international trade and environmental policy.

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran Japan Sign Customs Pact to Boost Trade

Iran and Japan signed an agreement on mutual assistance and cooperation in customs matters. This aims to strengthen cooperation between the two countries' customs administrations in areas such as information exchange, document assistance, and technical cooperation. The goal is to improve customs clearance efficiency, reduce trade costs, optimize the business environment, and promote bilateral trade and economic relations. The agreement, modeled after the World Customs Organization's Model Agreement, establishes a solid legal foundation for Iran-Japan customs cooperation, signaling a new era in bilateral trade.

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Sparks Calls for White House Action

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Sparks Calls for White House Action

The labor dispute at US West Coast ports is escalating, prompting trade associations to urge the Biden administration to intervene. The White House is taking a cautious approach, emphasizing negotiated solutions. The retail and manufacturing sectors face the risk of supply chain disruptions, requiring businesses to proactively adjust their strategies. The ongoing situation threatens to further strain global commerce and highlights the vulnerability of international supply networks to localized conflicts. Businesses are exploring alternative shipping routes and diversifying suppliers to mitigate potential impacts.

11/03/2025 Logistics
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