In November 2025, US rail freight saw carload traffic increase by 4.3%, while intermodal traffic declined by 6.5%. Commodities like coal experienced growth, while miscellaneous carloads decreased. Year-to-date figures still show overall growth. The rail freight industry faces both challenges and opportunities, as reflected in these economic indicators and the performance of intermodal and traditional rail freight sectors.
U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic both decreased year-over-year in the first week of March. While carloads of coal, petroleum, and motor vehicles increased, commodities like grain experienced declines. Overall, North American rail freight volume also saw a downturn. These figures are often viewed as economic indicators, reflecting the health and activity of various industries and supply chains.
US Trade Representative Katherine Tai outlined the US's new trade strategy towards China, emphasizing US economic interests as the core. The strategy involves evaluating and enforcing the 'Phase One' trade agreement, and focusing on China's 'non-market' trade policies. This new approach aims to address trade challenges posed by China. However, the future direction of US-China trade relations remains uncertain.
US rail freight saw a 2% decrease in carload volume, while intermodal volume increased by 12.8%. The decline in coal transportation was a primary factor in the overall carload decrease. Increased consumer demand fueled the growth in intermodal traffic. The rail freight industry faces structural adjustments and opportunities, with the shift towards intermodal highlighting evolving transportation needs and economic dynamics.
The ECB held interest rates steady, but slightly hawkish economic projections boosted the Euro. EUR/USD broke above the 100-hour moving average and is now testing the key resistance level of 1.1762. Whether the bulls can hold the 100-hour moving average will determine the short-term trend. Market participants are focused on Lagarde's speech to gauge the ECB's next move.
The WCO's WACAM project assisted Cape Verde Customs in establishing a stakeholder engagement mechanism to enhance transparency, facilitate trade, combat smuggling, and achieve customs modernization. This initiative fostered collaboration and improved communication between customs authorities and various stakeholders, leading to more efficient and effective customs operations. The project's success highlights the importance of stakeholder involvement in driving customs reform and promoting economic growth.
The WCO assisted Bahrain in enhancing its Post-Clearance Audit (PCA) and Pre-Arrival Processing (PAP) capabilities to align with the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. Bahrain committed to applying the acquired knowledge and skills. The WCO will continue to support Bahrain's customs modernization efforts. This assistance aims to improve efficiency and effectiveness in customs procedures, ultimately facilitating trade and economic growth for Bahrain.
Air freight rates from Shenzhen to Taiwan are influenced by multiple factors including economic recovery, inflation, capacity, and policies, showing a fluctuating upward trend. This trend is expected to continue in the short term, while long-term stability is possible. Businesses should closely monitor market dynamics, optimize logistics strategies, reduce costs, and strengthen risk management to navigate these changes effectively.
KeepTruckin has launched "Facility Insights," a feature leveraging big data analytics to predict dwell times at ports and warehouses, aiming to reduce trucking delays. By mitigating accident risks and minimizing economic losses, this functionality offers efficiency improvements and cost control for truck drivers and freight companies. It also incorporates industry trends and policy opportunities to provide a comprehensive solution for optimizing logistics operations.
Canada's strong job market performance has boosted the Canadian dollar exchange rate. Despite challenges from the housing market, trade uncertainties, and potential inflation risks, the Canadian economy has shown resilience. Market expectations for interest rate hikes by the Bank of Canada are increasing. The Canadian dollar's trajectory is influenced by multiple factors, and investors should closely monitor economic data and policy developments.
