East Coast Port Strike Threatens US Supply Chains

East Coast Port Strike Threatens US Supply Chains

US East and Gulf Coast ports face a potential strike by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), prompting the National Retail Federation (NRF) and other industry associations to urge White House intervention in labor negotiations. The article analyzes the potential supply chain disruptions and price increases caused by a strike. Drawing lessons from past West Coast port strikes, it offers advice for businesses to mitigate risks. With time running out, all parties need to reach an agreement quickly to avoid global economic repercussions. The urgency of the situation demands swift action to prevent significant disruptions.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

WCO and WTO Enhance Collaboration to Boost Global Trade

The World Customs Organization and the World Trade Organization reached a consensus at the 6th Global Aid for Trade Review, agreeing to further deepen cooperation to jointly promote the implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement and strengthen collaboration in emerging areas such as e-commerce. This collaborative effort aims to create a more convenient and efficient environment for global trade, reducing barriers and fostering economic growth through streamlined customs procedures and enhanced international partnerships. The focus remains on facilitating smoother cross-border transactions and leveraging digital technologies for trade advancement.

01/27/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Switzerland WCO Aid Bolivias Customs Modernization for Trade

Switzerland WCO Aid Bolivias Customs Modernization for Trade

The WCO conducted an assessment of Bolivia Customs' implementation of the Mercator Agreement, recommending improvements in areas such as risk management and advance rulings. Bolivia expressed its gratitude and appreciation for the recommendations. The assessment highlighted the need for enhanced efficiency and transparency in customs procedures to further facilitate trade and economic growth. Bolivia acknowledged the value of the WCO's expertise and committed to implementing the suggested improvements to strengthen its customs operations and better align with international standards. This collaboration underscores the importance of international cooperation in promoting trade facilitation.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Chinaarab Park Partners with CAEXPO to Enhance Belt and Road Trade

Chinaarab Park Partners with CAEXPO to Enhance Belt and Road Trade

The China-Arab Economic and Trade Cooperation Demonstration Park and the CAEXPO Excellent Products Exhibition and Sales Center of Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center signed a strategic cooperation agreement. This aims to deepen economic and trade linkages between China and Arab countries, as well as China and ASEAN, exploring mutually beneficial cross-border cooperation paths. Both parties will establish a cross-regional economic and trade collaboration hub between China-Arab countries and ASEAN through resource sharing, channel interconnection, and product promotion. This will help enterprises expand into international markets and promote regional economic development.

01/27/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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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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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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Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

Bahrain Customs Adopts Wcobacked Smart Clearance System

The World Customs Organization (WCO) is supporting Bahrain Customs to enhance its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) capabilities and develop its advance declaration processing system to meet the requirements of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Through a workshop held in Manama, Bahrain Customs officials gained a deeper understanding of PCA concepts and the value of advance declaration processing. They committed to applying their knowledge in practice, and the WCO will continue to provide support for these efforts. This initiative aims to improve customs efficiency and facilitate trade.

02/02/2026 Customs Knowledge
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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.

11/03/2025 Document Interpretation
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