US Retail Imports Slow Holiday Sales Still Strong

US Retail Imports Slow Holiday Sales Still Strong

Despite headwinds like government shutdowns, U.S. retail container ports remain on a growth trajectory, albeit at a slower pace. The report forecasts holiday sales growth, but retailers should focus on consumer confidence and inventory management. Experts advise strengthening supply chain management, diversifying sourcing channels, and investing in technological innovation to navigate market changes. Proactive measures are crucial for retailers to optimize operations and maintain competitiveness in a dynamic environment.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Businesses Shift From Hourly Labor to Flexible Models

Businesses Shift From Hourly Labor to Flexible Models

Traditional hourly worker models struggle to meet modern business needs, plagued by information asymmetry, inconsistent worker quality, and inefficient management. This new Bluecrew ebook analyzes these shortcomings, highlighting the need for precise matching, efficient management, and flexible cost control. Companies should shift their perspective and embrace smarter hourly worker solutions. This includes leveraging technology to improve worker selection, scheduling, and performance tracking, ultimately optimizing workforce costs and improving operational efficiency.

Global Logistics Sector Struggles As PMI Hits 10year Low

Global Logistics Sector Struggles As PMI Hits 10year Low

Global trade faces challenges as the manufacturing PMI hits a 10-year low, raising supply chain concerns. The Port of Los Angeles is enhancing its operational efficiency and competitiveness through increased infrastructure investment, data-driven management, and strengthened inland partnerships. Businesses need to build flexible, efficient, and resilient supply chains by diversifying sourcing, strengthening risk management, embracing technological innovation, and fostering collaboration to navigate the complexities and uncertainties of global trade.

Experts Analyze Global Supply Chain Trends Postpandemic

Experts Analyze Global Supply Chain Trends Postpandemic

S&P Global expert Chris Rogers provides an in-depth analysis of global trade trends, focusing on US imports, peak season forecasts, inventory management, and US-China trade relations. He examines both challenges and opportunities, offering strategic guidance for businesses in the post-pandemic era to optimize their supply chain management and gain a competitive edge in global trade. This includes navigating current complexities and proactively preparing for future market dynamics.

Whole Foods Grapples With Supply Chain Shortages

Whole Foods Grapples With Supply Chain Shortages

Whole Foods Market is currently facing a product shortage crisis stemming from multiple factors including supplier bankruptcies, inventory management issues, and the impact of the Amazon acquisition. This crisis has led to decreased consumer trust and damage to brand reputation. To rebuild its brand image and restore market competitiveness, Whole Foods needs to optimize its supply chain management, improve its inventory systems, strengthen its collaboration with Amazon, and boost employee morale.

Firms Prepare for 2026 Quality Certification Rule Updates

Firms Prepare for 2026 Quality Certification Rule Updates

The new version of the "Quality Management System Certification Rules" will take effect on January 1, 2026. Companies need to study the new regulations in advance, assess their existing systems, and develop rectification plans. If necessary, seek assistance from professional organizations to ensure successful certification and avoid certificate invalidation. This presents an opportunity to improve overall quality management levels. Proactive preparation is crucial for a smooth transition and continued compliance.

Jordan Customs Boosts Efficiency Security with WCO Upgrade

Jordan Customs Boosts Efficiency Security with WCO Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) successfully piloted a new organizational risk management diagnostic tool within Jordan Customs, aiming to enhance its risk management capabilities in the face of increasingly complex international trade. Through comprehensive assessment and targeted recommendations, the WCO assisted Jordan Customs in developing an action plan to improve both clearance efficiency and security. This initiative serves as a valuable reference for the modernization efforts of other customs administrations.

Eswatini Customs Reforms HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

Eswatini Customs Reforms HR to Boost Trade Efficiency

Eswatini is committed to addressing trade facilitation challenges by adopting a competency-based human resource management model. The World Customs Organization (WCO) conducted a talent development diagnostic of Eswatini Customs and provided recommendations for improvement. Eswatini Customs has pledged to implement competency-based management to enhance employee skills and efficiency, ultimately promoting trade facilitation. This initiative aims to improve the quality and effectiveness of customs operations through strategic human resource development.

Nigeria Customs Adopts Wcobacked Tech for Faster Clearance

Nigeria Customs Adopts Wcobacked Tech for Faster Clearance

The World Customs Organization (WCO) collaborated with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) through the 'Accelerated Trade Facilitation Programme' to strengthen its Post Clearance Audit (PCA) system. This project covers five pillars: risk management, legal framework, operational procedures, stakeholder engagement, and human resource management. It aims to improve the efficiency of Nigeria Customs, seamlessly integrate with the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and contribute to trade prosperity in Nigeria and Africa.

Africachina Trade Grows with Customs Collaboration

Africachina Trade Grows with Customs Collaboration

The WCO's Trade Facilitation Programme supports knowledge exchange between the South African Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service, focusing on post-clearance audit (PCA), Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), and risk management. Nigeria Customs aims to leverage South Africa's best practices to upgrade its AEO program, PCA processes, and risk management strategies. This initiative seeks to improve trade compliance, reduce costs for businesses, and ultimately contribute to economic growth in Nigeria.