Canada Slaps Heavy Duties on Chinese Thermal Paper Imports

Canada Slaps Heavy Duties on Chinese Thermal Paper Imports

Canada imposed anti-dumping and countervailing duties of up to 359.1% on thermal paper rolls from China, significantly impacting the competitiveness of Chinese products in the Canadian market. This action exemplifies the rise of trade protectionism and serves as a warning to Chinese enterprises to closely monitor international trade policy changes, proactively address challenges, and consider diversifying their export markets. The high tariffs create a substantial barrier to entry and highlight the need for Chinese companies to develop strategies to mitigate the impact of such protectionist measures.

Global Trade Relies Heavily on Merchandisers Report Finds

Global Trade Relies Heavily on Merchandisers Report Finds

Foreign trade order followers play a crucial role in international trade, responsible for order tracking, documentation, logistics coordination, and customer relationship management. Their work involves confirming order details, tracking production progress, controlling quality, preparing and reviewing documents, arranging transportation, customs clearance, and communicating with customers. This requires solid professional knowledge and excellent communication skills. They ensure smooth order fulfillment from placement to delivery, acting as a vital link between suppliers, manufacturers, and international buyers. Effective order follow-up is essential for successful international trade operations.

Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

Sales Teams Boost Customer Ties with Automation Tools

This paper explores how Sales Order Automation (SOA) can enhance sales team effectiveness. It emphasizes that SOA frees up sales representatives to focus on customer relationship management. The article also suggests that companies should restructure their sales teams based on customer buying behavior, building a customer-centric sales organization to stand out in the fierce market competition. By automating repetitive tasks and streamlining processes, sales teams can dedicate more time to building relationships and closing deals, ultimately improving overall performance and driving revenue growth.

Middle East Sees Surge in Home Fitness and Protective Gear Sales

Middle East Sees Surge in Home Fitness and Protective Gear Sales

Data from Middle Eastern e-commerce platform NOON shows a trend towards home-based and protective fitness consumption during winter. Protective gear like earplugs and muscle patches, along with home fitness equipment such as pull-up bars and resistance bands, are selling well. This reflects consumers' increased demand for practicality, cost-effectiveness, and scene adaptability. Noise protection and muscle warmth have become essential needs, and convenient home fitness is the mainstream. Consumers are prioritizing accessible and effective workouts within the comfort and safety of their homes.

US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

US Rail Freight Declines in April but Maintains Annual Growth

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes decreased year-over-year in mid-April, but cumulative volumes remained up for the year. Freight saw increases in chemicals and coal, while grain, metallic ores, and petroleum declined. Intermodal continues to face challenges. Overall, rail transport in North America declined. Key influencing factors include macroeconomic conditions, supply chain dynamics, and industry structural changes. Future focus should be on long-term trends, addressing challenges, and building an efficient intermodal transportation system.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

US Rail Freight Growth Uneven in May Key Sectors Gain

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail traffic and intermodal volumes declined year-over-year in May, although commodities like crushed stone, motor vehicles, and food products experienced growth. The AAR suggests the data reflects a mixed economic picture. Overall rail traffic volumes edged up slightly in the first five months, while intermodal volumes decreased. Future rail freight development hinges on macroeconomic conditions, supply chains, geopolitical factors, and industry transformation. The performance of specific sectors highlights the nuanced nature of the current economic environment.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

US Rail Freight Growth Mixed As Carloads Rise Intermodal Declines

According to the Association of American Railroads, U.S. rail carloads increased by 3.4% for the week ending August 27, driven by gains in coal, grain, and motor vehicle parts. However, intermodal container and trailer volume decreased by 0.3% year-over-year. Year-to-date, carloads are up slightly by 0.1%, while intermodal volume has declined significantly by 5.3%, reflecting ongoing supply chain challenges and shifting demand patterns. This divergence highlights the complex dynamics influencing the rail freight sector and its role as an economic indicator.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Service Sector Hits Record High in May Amid Demand Surge

US Service Sector Hits Record High in May Amid Demand Surge

The US Services PMI hit a record high of 64 in May, signaling a robust economic recovery. All 18 industries reported growth, driven by pent-up demand. However, supply chain bottlenecks, labor shortages, and inflationary pressures pose significant challenges. Experts anticipate a potential pullback in the future, but overall demand remains strong. Policymakers should focus on addressing structural issues to ensure sustainable growth. The strong PMI indicates a vibrant services sector, but the underlying constraints need careful monitoring to avoid hindering long-term economic progress.

Rail Merger Delayed Over Antitrust Concerns

Rail Merger Delayed Over Antitrust Concerns

The proposed $850 billion merger between Union Pacific (UP) and Norfolk Southern (NS) has been delayed, sending shockwaves through the industry. BNSF strongly opposes the merger, questioning its competitive implications. A successful merger would create the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S., reshaping the industry landscape. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) ruling will be crucial and have far-reaching consequences. The delay highlights the intense scrutiny and potential antitrust concerns surrounding such a significant consolidation in the railroad sector, impacting supply chains and market dynamics.

US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

US Imports Stay Elevated As Port Delays Continue

According to the Descartes Global Shipping Report, US imports in August decreased by 3% month-over-month but remained high, up 12.9% year-over-year, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This high import volume exacerbates port congestion, with delays increasing at the seven major ports. Chinese imports remain a significant driver, growing by 17.2%. The report reveals a slight decrease in the West Coast ports' share and a general increase in port transportation delays. Addressing port congestion requires increased infrastructure investment, optimized operations, and improved inland transportation.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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