West Coast Ports Struggle With Internal Conflicts During Recovery

West Coast Ports Struggle With Internal Conflicts During Recovery

The President of the Pacific Merchant Shipping Association warns that West Coast ports are facing a 'self-destructive behavior' threat, including local government 'vampirism,' labor disputes, and management chaos. These issues are causing cargo loss and weakening competitiveness. The article calls for reshaping port governance, improving management efficiency, improving labor relations, and increasing investment in infrastructure construction to avoid the continued decline of West Coast ports and revitalize their position in global trade.

US Imports Rise Despite Tariffs Supply Chain Risks Persist

US Imports Rise Despite Tariffs Supply Chain Risks Persist

S&P Global data reveals a surprisingly strong 11.6% growth in US imports for 2024. This surge is largely attributed to companies stockpiling inventory in anticipation of potential tariffs. However, the introduction of new tariff policies may lead to a decline in import volumes in 2025. Businesses are advised to diversify their sourcing strategies, optimize inventory management, and closely monitor evolving policy changes to mitigate potential disruptions and navigate the changing trade landscape.

Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

Global Air Freight Fuel Surcharges A Costsaving Guide

International air freight fuel surcharge calculations are complex, primarily based on chargeable weight or a percentage of the base freight rate. Additional charges may apply in special circumstances, such as peak seasons or the use of sustainable aviation fuel. Understanding these calculation methods helps foreign trade and cross-border e-commerce sellers choose more economical shipping solutions. This knowledge allows businesses to better manage their logistics costs and optimize their supply chain for international shipments.

California Ports Boost Climate Resilience Against Rising Seas

California Ports Boost Climate Resilience Against Rising Seas

Four California ports jointly held a workshop on “Storm, Flood, and Sea Level Defense Strategies” to discuss tackling climate change challenges. The Port of Rotterdam shared its flood defense experience, emphasizing the importance of collaboration. California ports are actively developing response strategies and strengthening regional cooperation. By upgrading infrastructure, improving drainage systems, adopting innovative technologies, and developing emergency plans, ports can enhance their resilience to storms and floods, ensuring the smooth flow of global trade.

Guide to Streamlining VAT Payments and Refunds Online

Guide to Streamlining VAT Payments and Refunds Online

This article details the operational process of online VAT payment and refund, including LianLian account binding, tax payment (providing two methods), tax payment record inquiry, and refund account settings and inquiry. It aims to help cross-border e-commerce sellers easily handle VAT payment and refunds, improving operational efficiency. The guide covers key aspects of managing VAT obligations online, streamlining the process for businesses engaged in international trade and ensuring compliance with VAT regulations.

Temus Aggressive US Expansion Fuels Ecommerce Rivalry

Temus Aggressive US Expansion Fuels Ecommerce Rivalry

Pinduoduo's overseas version, Temu, entered the US market with a low-price strategy, achieving rapid growth by squeezing supplier prices and investing heavily in marketing. However, this "reverse dumping" model faces numerous challenges, including sustainability and trade fairness. Whether Temu can replicate Pinduoduo's success in the US market remains to be seen. Its aggressive pricing and marketing tactics have disrupted the e-commerce landscape, but the long-term viability of this approach is still uncertain.

Vietnams Tilapia Exports to US Defy Tariff Hurdles

Vietnams Tilapia Exports to US Defy Tariff Hurdles

In 2025, Vietnam's tilapia exports to the US surged by 173% to $53.15 million, making it the largest export market. This growth was driven by opportunities arising from trade tensions between the US and China, and the US and Brazil. Vietnamese companies quickly responded to US market demand, particularly with increased exports of frozen fish fillets. Leveraging cost advantages and supply stability, Vietnam is steadily increasing its market share in the US tilapia market.

New Guide Aims to Streamline Crossborder Ecommerce Customs

New Guide Aims to Streamline Crossborder Ecommerce Customs

The WCO and UPU have released guidelines to assist national customs and postal administrations in developing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). These MoUs aim to optimize the handling of cross-border mail, enhancing efficiency, security, and trade facilitation. The guidelines provide a framework for cooperation between customs and postal services, ensuring smoother and more secure international mail flows. By implementing these recommendations, countries can streamline processes and improve the overall effectiveness of cross-border mail operations.

Asiapacific Customs Adopts Tech for Smarter Borders

Asiapacific Customs Adopts Tech for Smarter Borders

The WCO Asia Pacific region launched a series of workshops on disruptive technologies, focusing on the application of technologies like blockchain, AI, and IoT in customs. The conference aims to share experiences, gather feedback, update WCO related research reports, and promote international cooperation, technology standardization, regulatory improvement, and talent development to jointly build smart customs. The goal is to leverage these technologies to enhance trade facilitation and improve customs efficiency and effectiveness.

WCO Enhances Customs Risk Training in Americas Caribbean

WCO Enhances Customs Risk Training in Americas Caribbean

With the support of the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a Risk Management Pre-Accreditation Workshop for the Americas and Caribbean region in Guatemala City. The workshop aimed to expand the WCO's pool of experts and enhance member's capabilities in risk management. Participants were assessed on their technical knowledge, presentation skills, and communication abilities. This initiative contributes to building a safer and more efficient global trade environment.