US Service Sector Growth Slows in November Amid Economic Risks

US Service Sector Growth Slows in November Amid Economic Risks

The US Services PMI for November expanded for the fifth consecutive month, but the growth slowed to 52.1, falling below expectations. Significant sectoral divergence was observed, with most sectors expanding while a few contracted. Key sub-indices showed mixed signals, interpreted by experts as a return to normalcy. Geopolitical risks, policy uncertainties, and inflationary pressures pose potential risks. The outlook remains cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the need to monitor structural changes within the services sector. The slowdown suggests a moderating pace of economic activity.

01/19/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Eswatini Advances nostop Border Plan to Boost Trade

Eswatini Advances nostop Border Plan to Boost Trade

With the support of the World Customs Organization, Eswatini is accelerating its vision of 'borders without stopping' through Coordinated Border Management and data standardization. This project integrates multi-sectoral efforts to optimize border processes, enhance information sharing, and develop inter-agency Standard Operating Procedures, laying the foundation for digitalization and interoperability. The initiative aims to promote trade facilitation and achieve sustainable economic development by streamlining border operations and fostering collaboration among various government agencies involved in cross-border trade.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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July Shipping Shakeup: Europe Rates Soar as US Prices Plunge

July Shipping Shakeup: Europe Rates Soar as US Prices Plunge

Global shipping markets face sharp shifts this July, with European route rates hitting record highs due to capacity reallocation and port congestion, while US West Coast rates drop amid oversupply and weak demand. Carriers' pricing updates confirm this divergence, urging shippers and forwarders to monitor trends closely for upcoming volatility.

06/20/2025 Logistics
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Trucking Sector Faces Mixed Signals Amid Yearend Uncertainty

Trucking Sector Faces Mixed Signals Amid Yearend Uncertainty

October DAT data reveals a divergence in the freight market: dry van and refrigerated freight volumes increased, while flatbed volumes declined. Spot rates generally decreased, with linehaul rates continuing their downward trend. Experts suggest this may be a seasonal rebound, advising carriers to refine operations and brokers to expand sourcing to navigate the challenges.

01/20/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Freight Market Diverges from Broader Economy Analysts Say

Freight Market Diverges from Broader Economy Analysts Say

Armada analyst Prather highlighted a 'decoupling' between the freight market and macroeconomics at the SMC3 J conference. Analyzing historical data, he found they don't always move in sync. Changes in inventory management, supply chain structures, and consumer habits contribute to this divergence. Logistics companies need to analyze the market deeply and develop appropriate strategies to navigate this disconnect.

01/28/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Crude Oil and Tanker Stocks Show Diverging Market Trends

Crude Oil and Tanker Stocks Show Diverging Market Trends

At the beginning of 2025, the global tanker market faces uncertainty, with marked divergence in the performance of crude and product oil tanker stocks. Product oil tankers are pressured by an increase in new vessel deliveries and a slowdown in demand growth, while crude oil tankers show a more positive outlook due to recovering demand and turbulence in the international market.

05/12/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Air Cargo Faces Capacity and Cost Challenges by 2025

Air Cargo Faces Capacity and Cost Challenges by 2025

In 2025, the international air freight market reveals a structural divergence in capacity, with a stark contrast between surplus bellyhold capacity on passenger planes and a shortage of dedicated freighters. Regional freight rates are highly volatile, with prices soaring from Southeast Asia to Europe while decreasing on the trans-Pacific routes. Companies need to leverage data analytics to optimize their shipping routes and tackle these challenges.

08/05/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Spains Service Sector Hits 12month Peak Despite Inflation

Spains Service Sector Hits 12month Peak Despite Inflation

Spain's Services PMI hit a 12-month high, significantly exceeding expectations and driving economic growth. However, manufacturing weakness, inflationary pressures, and economic ties with key trading partners remain concerns. The report analyzes the divergence between the services and manufacturing sectors and provides an outlook on future economic trends. The Spanish economy faces both opportunities and challenges, requiring prudent policies to balance growth and stability.

01/30/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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WCO and UNCTAD Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

WCO and UNCTAD Partner to Boost Global Trade Efficiency

In 2014, the WCO and UNCTAD Secretaries-General met in Geneva, focusing on the harmonized implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). They emphasized providing needs assessments and technical assistance based on WCO instruments to avoid implementation divergence. Discussions also covered addressing complex cross-border trade issues, improving transportation and logistics efficiency. Both parties committed to further strengthening cooperation to build an efficient and transparent global trade system.

12/30/2025 Customs Knowledge
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