US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

US Imports Drop Sharply in May Amid Trade Tensions China Hit Hardest

A Descartes report reveals a significant drop in U.S. container imports in May, with China freight experiencing a record decline due to trade friction and tariffs. The share of East Coast and Gulf Coast ports increased, while West Coast ports saw a decrease, indicating a profound shift in trade patterns. The impact of ongoing trade disputes is clearly visible in the reduced import volumes and the changing dynamics between different port regions.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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Red Sea Crisis Sends Global Shipping Costs Soaring

Red Sea Crisis Sends Global Shipping Costs Soaring

The Red Sea crisis has triggered a surge in ocean freight rates, exacerbating issues such as extended voyages, increased costs, and port congestion. Businesses should proactively plan, diversify transportation routes, strengthen communication, optimize inventory, leverage technology, and closely monitor the market to mitigate these challenges. Digital transformation and supply chain resilience will be crucial for future success in navigating this evolving landscape. The crisis highlights the need for robust and adaptable supply chain strategies.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact to Avoid Disruptions

A six-year labor agreement has been reached at 36 ports along the US East and Gulf Coasts, ensuring wage increases and automation protections, bringing stability to the supply chain. This collaboration between the International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance avoids the risk of strikes while laying the groundwork for port modernization and future development. This agreement is crucial for maintaining smooth operations and preventing disruptions in the vital maritime transportation network.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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US Ports Face Import Surge Ahead of Holidays Strike Concerns

US Ports Face Import Surge Ahead of Holidays Strike Concerns

Rising import volumes into US East Coast and Gulf Coast ports are driven by the risk of port strikes, as retailers front-load inventory to mitigate potential supply chain disruptions. Slow progress in labor negotiations casts a long shadow of strike action. Analysis suggests import volume isn't directly correlated with retail sales but reflects retailer expectations. All parties need to work towards an agreement to avoid the economic impact of a strike.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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WCO Enhances Tanzania Revenue Authoritys Capacity Via Partnership

WCO Enhances Tanzania Revenue Authoritys Capacity Via Partnership

The World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA) are deepening their cooperation through a project funded by the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad). This initiative aims to enhance the TRA's capabilities in key areas such as commodity classification and valuation. The collaboration involves joint needs assessments, the introduction of project management methodologies, and coordination with other cooperative projects. The overall goal is to facilitate trade, improve customs management in Tanzania, and contribute to the country's economic development.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Outlines Plan for Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Outlines Plan for Postpandemic Supply Chain Resilience

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) held an online meeting with customs representatives in Geneva to discuss how customs can contribute to global supply chain recovery in the post-pandemic era. The meeting highlighted the cooperation between the WCO and the WTO, clarified the work priorities for 2021 regarding pandemic response and technology empowerment, and emphasized the importance of building resilient supply chains. The global customs community looks forward to strengthening communication and cooperation to jointly address challenges.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Program Boosts Customs Leadership and Global Trade Growth

WCO Program Boosts Customs Leadership and Global Trade Growth

The World Customs Organization (WCO) Professional Development Programme aims to cultivate customs talent and promote international cooperation. The 2011/2012 project review highlights its objectives, participants, achievements, and impact, emphasizing the importance of knowledge sharing, capacity building, and trade facilitation. The article also looks forward to the future development direction of the program, calling for jointly building a new chapter in global customs cooperation. It underscores the program's role in fostering a collaborative environment and enhancing the effectiveness of customs administrations worldwide.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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Customs and ICAO Strengthen Global Aviation Security

Customs and ICAO Strengthen Global Aviation Security

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization (WCO) emphasized at the ICAO World Aviation Forum that aviation cargo security can be effectively enhanced by building global standards, strengthening capacity building, deepening public-private partnerships, addressing Sustainable Development Goals, and strengthening international cooperation. The WCO and ICAO will strengthen cooperation to build a global aviation security network, extending to the anti-doping field, and jointly maintain global security. This collaboration aims to create a safer and more secure air cargo environment worldwide.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

Middle East North Africa Crack Down on Customs Fraud

A Customs Valuation and Fraud Workshop was held in Jordan, supported by the World Customs Organization and the China Customs Cooperation Fund. The workshop aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officers from North Africa, the Near East, and the Middle East. It focused on the WTO Agreement on Customs Valuation, the application of the Revenue Package, and fraud response. Through case studies and risk management discussions, the workshop promoted regional cooperation and the construction of a fair trade environment.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Toyota Rivian Adapt Strategies Amid Auto Tariff Challenges

Toyota Rivian Adapt Strategies Amid Auto Tariff Challenges

The automotive industry faces tariff challenges amid escalating global trade frictions. Toyota strengthens internal collaboration and actively communicates with governments to uphold the USMCA agreement. Rivian adheres to market demand and prudently adjusts its supply chain. Flexibility and cooperation are crucial for the automotive industry to navigate uncertainty. Companies need to pay attention to policy changes, strengthen cooperation, and promote innovation and sustainable development. This proactive approach is essential for mitigating risks and ensuring long-term competitiveness in a dynamic global market.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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