APICS Enhances STEM Programs to Address Supply Chain Labor Shortage

APICS Enhances STEM Programs to Address Supply Chain Labor Shortage

APICS promotes STEM education in supply chain to address the industry's talent shortage. It cultivates interest in K-12 students through interactive activities, encouraging more young people and women to pursue careers in the field. This initiative aims to build a future workforce equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in supply chain management, ensuring a sustainable talent pipeline and promoting diversity within the industry.

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 Reach Labor Deal Supply Chain Issues Persist

East Coast Ports Reach Labor Deal Supply Chain Issues Persist

A preliminary labor agreement between dockworkers and employers on the US East Coast has temporarily eased supply chain concerns, though full port operation recovery will take time. The agreement reflects significant negotiation and compromise between labor and management, with far-reaching implications. Continued monitoring of the agreement's progress is crucial, and stakeholders must enhance risk management strategies to ensure supply chain stability. The long-term effects on port efficiency and overall supply chain resilience remain to be seen.

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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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact for Stability

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact for Stability

36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts are entering a six-year "golden period." The International Longshoremen's Association and the United States Maritime Alliance have signed a new labor agreement, guaranteeing record wage increases and automation protections. This aims to enhance port competitiveness, attract investment, promote employment, and ultimately safeguard people's livelihoods. This agreement lays a solid foundation for the stability and development of the US supply chain.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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LA Long Beach Port Labor Dispute Risks Supply Chain Disruptions

LA Long Beach Port Labor Dispute Risks Supply Chain Disruptions

Los Angeles and Long Beach port clerical workers rejected a tentative agreement aimed at ending their strike, highlighting tensions in port labor relations. The strike, stemming from outsourcing concerns, significantly impacted the supply chain, prompting widespread calls for resolution. Addressing underlying issues like automation and job security is crucial for building sustainable labor relations and ensuring global supply chain stability. The rejection underscores the need for a more comprehensive agreement that addresses worker anxieties about the future of their jobs in the face of increasing automation.

02/04/2026 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.

Hong Kong Ministers Draft Trade Negotiation Report

Hong Kong Ministers Draft Trade Negotiation Report

The Trade Negotiations Committee meeting reviewed the draft report for the Hong Kong Ministerial Conference. Representatives from various parties offered opinions and suggestions on the report's content, primarily focusing on wording, progress descriptions, and future directions. While disagreements existed, all parties expressed a willingness to seek consensus, laying the groundwork for future negotiations. The discussions aimed to refine the report and ensure it accurately reflects the current state of negotiations and sets a clear path forward. The meeting highlighted the complexities involved but also the commitment to finding common ground.