US Retail Imports Hit Record High Despite Trade Tensions

US Retail Imports Hit Record High Despite Trade Tensions

Port Tracker forecasts record-high U.S. retail cargo volume this summer, but trade friction poses a risk. Retailers need to diversify sourcing, and the government should stabilize the trade environment. The predicted surge in imports suggests strong consumer demand. However, ongoing trade disputes could disrupt supply chains and increase costs. Diversifying sourcing and fostering stable trade relations are crucial for mitigating these risks and ensuring continued economic growth. Monitoring port activity provides valuable insights into consumer spending and overall economic health.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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Port of LA Weighs Ban on Trucker Contractors Amid Labor Dispute

Port of LA Weighs Ban on Trucker Contractors Amid Labor Dispute

The Port of Los Angeles is considering banning freight companies that employ contract drivers, aiming to address long-standing labor rights disputes. This initiative seeks to regulate the market but has sparked debate regarding its legality, feasibility, and potential impact on the industry. This article delves into the labor rights issues, the impact of the port's motion, the industry's challenges, and future development directions. It calls for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to seek a balance and sustainable development within the freight industry.

Canada Ends Rail Strike Swiftly to Avert Supply Chain Crisis

Canada Ends Rail Strike Swiftly to Avert Supply Chain Crisis

A near-economic crisis in North America was narrowly averted due to a Canadian railway labor dispute. Swift government intervention, mandating arbitration and ordering workers back to work, prevented potentially massive economic losses. This event highlighted the critical role of rail transport in the supply chain and the importance of proactive government intervention in labor disputes involving key infrastructure. Long-term solutions include strengthening labor-management dialogue, improving regulations, enhancing safety oversight, and developing diversified transportation modes to improve supply chain resilience.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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Maritime Guide Protecting Cargo Under General Average

Maritime Guide Protecting Cargo Under General Average

This article provides an accessible and in-depth analysis of the 'General Average' system in maritime transport. It covers the definition, constituent elements, handling procedures, precautions, responses to special scenarios, and long-term risk prevention strategies. This comprehensive 'avoidance guide' aims to help cargo owners understand the risks of General Average and effectively respond when encountering it, reducing potential losses and disputes. It offers practical insights for mitigating the financial impact and navigating the complexities of General Average claims in the shipping industry.

WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

WTO Moves to Standardize Global Customs Valuation Rules

The 1983 Customs Valuation Committee Decision clarified that the English term "undertaken" in the Customs Valuation Agreement should be interpreted as "carried out." This aims to standardize international trade terminology, enhance the accuracy and consistency of customs valuation, reduce the risk of trade disputes, and facilitate international trade. The French and Spanish versions of the term remain unchanged. This clarification ensures a more uniform application of the agreement across different language versions, promoting fairness and predictability in international trade transactions.

UPS Adapts to Labor Challenges Rising Costs in Logistics

UPS Adapts to Labor Challenges Rising Costs in Logistics

UPS Airlines has recently undertaken significant measures in fleet expansion, labor relations, and rate adjustments to address growing demand, stabilize operations, and adjust costs. Fleet expansion increases capacity, but labor disputes pose a potential strike risk, and rate adjustments impact customer costs. Long-term labor agreements can contribute to stability, but continuous monitoring of labor relations and market changes is necessary. These initiatives have a profound impact on the global logistics industry, influencing capacity, pricing, and overall operational stability within the network.

02/04/2026 Logistics
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WCO OECD Align Customs and Transfer Pricing to Boost Trade

WCO OECD Align Customs and Transfer Pricing to Boost Trade

A joint workshop by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) aimed to enhance the expertise of customs and tax authorities in customs valuation and transfer pricing. It promoted cooperation to resolve tax disputes and trade frictions arising from valuation differences. The workshop included rule learning, practical exchanges, and provided WCO guidelines as reference. Future efforts will focus on deepening collaboration to build a fair trade environment by addressing valuation challenges and fostering international cooperation.

Alastin Skincare Cracks Down on Trademark Violations

Alastin Skincare Cracks Down on Trademark Violations

Alastin Skincare, a well-known skincare brand under Galderma with a diverse product line covering daily care and skin regeneration, has commissioned GBC Law Firm to initiate trademark enforcement lawsuits involving over ten trademarks. Cross-border sellers should be aware of the risk of infringement and immediately conduct self-checks of their product information to avoid legal disputes. Failure to comply may lead to significant legal consequences. Proactive measures are crucial to ensure compliance and protect businesses from potential liabilities.

Jewelry Sellers Face Copyright Risks Over Earring Designs

Jewelry Sellers Face Copyright Risks Over Earring Designs

Jewelry sellers beware! Copyright disputes have arisen over two earring designs, prompting enforcement actions. While a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) hasn't yet been issued, the risk of infringement is significant. Artist Sehreen Shahzad holds the copyright to these earring designs. Sellers should carefully compare their products to avoid potential legal issues. Compliance is crucial for success in cross-border e-commerce. Don't risk your business for minor gains. Due diligence is highly recommended to ensure your products don't infringe on existing copyrights.

Fitness Brand Shefit Sues Competitors Over Trademark Violations

Fitness Brand Shefit Sues Competitors Over Trademark Violations

BSF Law is representing Shefit athletic apparel in trademark and patent enforcement actions, case number 24-cv-61310. Shefit holds multiple US trademarks and patents (patent number 8932104). Cross-border sellers should be aware of the risk of infringement and strengthen their product selection review process to avoid unnecessary legal disputes. It is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence to ensure compliance with intellectual property rights and mitigate potential liabilities associated with selling products that may infringe upon existing trademarks or patents.