West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

West Coast Ports Secure Early Labor Deal Averting Strike

The Pacific Maritime Association proposed a three-year contract extension to the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, aiming to avert another economic crisis caused by West Coast port labor disputes. The agreement covers key issues like wage increases, pension contributions, and healthcare benefits, but union approval faces challenges. Automation and regulation are long-term challenges requiring collaborative solutions between labor and management to achieve mutual benefit and ensure supply chain stability. The proposed extension seeks to maintain operational efficiency and prevent disruptions that could negatively impact the national economy.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Biden Averts Rail Strike to Stabilize US Supply Chains

Biden Averts Rail Strike to Stabilize US Supply Chains

US President Biden established a Presidential Emergency Board (PEB) to mediate the railway labor dispute, aiming to avert a potential railway strike that could disrupt supply chains. The PEB will investigate the dispute and propose solutions. The retail industry is concerned about the impact of a strike on the peak season, while railway companies state their commitment to reaching an agreement. Experts believe a strike is unlikely, but the final outcome depends on the bargaining between labor and management. The PEB's recommendations are crucial in navigating this complex situation and preventing significant economic disruption.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Uschina Trade Deal Tests Logistics Supply Chain Resilience

Uschina Trade Deal Tests Logistics Supply Chain Resilience

The US-China Phase One trade deal, while signed, hasn't ended its impact on global logistics and supply chains. Although the agreement committed China to increased purchases of US goods, tariffs remain and achieving purchase targets faces challenges. Companies need to closely monitor policy developments, assess supply chain risks, optimize structures, strengthen technological innovation, and flexibly adjust strategies to thrive in an uncertain trade environment. The lingering tariffs and unmet purchase goals necessitate a proactive approach to mitigating disruptions and ensuring supply chain resilience in the face of ongoing trade tensions.

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid Dockworker Strike Fears

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid Dockworker Strike Fears

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 trade associations, is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential strike at the end of September. A strike would severely disrupt supply chains, impacting the retail industry, consumers, and the overall economy. The NRF emphasizes that the White House should draw on past successful interventions to facilitate an agreement, ensuring smooth port operations and cargo transportation to avoid an economic crisis.

01/29/2026 Logistics
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Guide to MAWB Vs HAWB for Efficient Air Freight Clearance

Guide to MAWB Vs HAWB for Efficient Air Freight Clearance

In international air freight, the Master Air Waybill (MAWB) and House Air Waybill (HAWB) are crucial transport documents. The MAWB serves as the contract of carriage between the airline and the freight forwarder, and is a legal document for customs clearance and cargo release. The HAWB represents the internal agreement between the freight forwarder and the shipper, and is dependent on the MAWB. Confusing the two can lead to customs clearance failures, cargo delivery delays, or even liability disputes. This article details the differences and applications of MAWB and HAWB to help you avoid air freight risks.

DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

DR Congo Boosts Customs Oversight to Reform Trade Practices

The General Directorate of Customs of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) sought technical assistance from the World Customs Organization (WCO) to regain control over customs valuation, aiming to assess and enhance the capabilities of customs officers. Following a diagnostic assessment, the WCO recommended that the DRC utilize modern tools such as risk management and post-clearance audit, and supported its strategy to comply with the Niamey Declaration and the Trade Facilitation Agreement. This initiative not only improves customs valuation capacity in the DRC but also revitalizes the national economy and reshapes the trade landscape.

Thailand Pushes for Remanufacturing in Trade Pacts to Aid Circular Economy

Thailand Pushes for Remanufacturing in Trade Pacts to Aid Circular Economy

This study explores the necessity of including remanufactured goods provisions in Thailand's regional trade agreements. By analyzing Thailand's circular economy policies, comparing relevant clauses in various RTAs, and incorporating case studies, it assesses the environmental, economic, and social impacts of incorporating remanufacturing provisions for Thailand. The aim is to provide decision-making references for the Thai government and promote circular economy development. The research considers the potential benefits and challenges of such inclusion, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resource-efficient economy in Thailand.

US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

US Rail Unions Companies Reach Tentative Deals to Avoid Strikes

Significant progress has been made in US railroad labor negotiations. Two major unions reached tentative agreements with freight rail companies, potentially averting a rail service disruption that could have begun on September 16th. These agreements, reached under the recommendations of the Presidential Emergency Board (PEB), involve wage increases and lump-sum payments. While some unions have yet to reach agreements, parties are actively seeking solutions to ensure the stable operation of the rail transportation network.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

Senate Passes Bill to Prevent Nationwide Rail Strike

The US Senate passed critical legislation to avert a freight railroad strike that threatened to cost the economy up to $2 billion daily. The legislation, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, includes wage increases and benefit improvements. It aims to resolve the dispute between labor unions and railroad companies, ensuring supply chain stability and continued economic growth. This action prevents a potential economic crisis stemming from a nationwide rail shutdown, safeguarding businesses and consumers alike by maintaining vital transportation links.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Senate Passes Bill to Block Rail Strike Biden Enacts Law

Senate Passes Bill to Block Rail Strike Biden Enacts Law

The US Senate passed a bill to avert a potentially devastating railroad strike. The legislation, based on recommendations from the Presidential Emergency Board, addresses disputes between railroad unions and employers regarding wages, sick leave, and work schedules. President Biden has signed the bill into law, ensuring stability in the supply chain during the holiday season. This action prevents significant economic disruption that would have resulted from a nationwide rail shutdown.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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