US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

US East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify Sixyear Labor Pact Amid Automation Push

A six-year labor agreement has been reached for 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts, guaranteeing wage increases and promoting automation. This agreement stabilizes labor relations and fosters regional economic growth. However, it's crucial to monitor market dynamics, strengthen technological innovation, and deepen labor-management cooperation to address potential challenges and ensure the ports' competitiveness in global trade. Continued focus on these areas will be vital for sustained success in the evolving landscape of international commerce.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

East Coast Gulf Ports Ratify 6year Labor Pact Boosting Automation and Pay

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have signed a new six-year contract covering 36 ports on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The agreement guarantees wage increases for dockworkers and provides a framework for port automation. It aims to achieve labor harmony, improve port efficiency, stabilize the supply chain, and promote international trade. This agreement is expected to foster a more predictable and productive environment for maritime commerce along these crucial waterways.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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US Consumer Spending Fuels Growth Despite Economic Headwinds

US Consumer Spending Fuels Growth Despite Economic Headwinds

Council of Economic Advisers Chair Bernstein analyzes the current state of the US economy, emphasizing the importance of intermediate goods trade and highlighting consumption as the economic engine and employment as the cornerstone. The government is committed to balancing growth and stability while improving public well-being, but challenges such as high prices remain. Efforts are focused on navigating these inflationary pressures and fostering a robust labor market to ensure sustainable economic prosperity for all Americans.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Qatar Customs Boosts Global Competitiveness Through Innovation

Qatar Customs Boosts Global Competitiveness Through Innovation

Qatar Customs has successfully advanced reforms and significantly improved logistics performance through technological upgrades, talent development, and strong leadership. Its experience demonstrates that clear goals, technological innovation, business cooperation, and leadership are key to customs modernization. The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization praised Qatar's achievements and encouraged them to share their experiences. Qatar's commitment to efficiency and modernization serves as a model for other nations seeking to enhance their customs operations and contribute to global trade facilitation.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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New Rules Ease Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

New Rules Ease Customs for Crossborder Ecommerce

A WCO report analyzes the customs clearance challenges of low-value goods in cross-border e-commerce, focusing on facilitation and risk management. It proposes optimization solutions such as intelligentization and international cooperation to improve efficiency and security. The report highlights the growing importance of addressing these challenges to ensure smooth trade flows and effective revenue collection in the rapidly expanding cross-border e-commerce landscape. It emphasizes the need for modernized customs procedures and enhanced collaboration between stakeholders.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO Chief Stresses Customs Key Role in Global Supply Chain Resilience

WCO Chief Stresses Customs Key Role in Global Supply Chain Resilience

The Secretary General of the World Customs Organization emphasized at the Asian Development Bank Institute Annual Conference that global supply chains face multiple challenges including digitalization, data standardization, disruptive technologies, e-commerce development, environmental issues, and border conflicts. Customs plays a crucial role in enhancing supply chain resilience by strengthening risk management, simplifying customs clearance, fostering international cooperation, applying technology, and building personnel capacity. Enhanced cooperation among border agencies is essential to jointly maintain trade security and facilitation.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

INAMA Initiative Expands Antiwildlife Trafficking in Africa Asia

The INAMA project supports customs authorities in nine African and Asian countries, enhancing their capacity to combat illegal wildlife trade through expert support missions. These missions focus on training, legislation, risk management, and action plans. The project promotes international cooperation, improves enforcement capabilities, and protects biodiversity, aiming to build a strong defense against ecological threats. By strengthening customs controls and fostering collaboration, INAMA contributes to the global effort to conserve endangered species and maintain ecological balance.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Import Growth Slows As Tariff Concerns Mount

US Import Growth Slows As Tariff Concerns Mount

According to an S&P Global Market Intelligence report, US import volumes continue to rise, but tariff policies and weakening demand could lead to declines in the coming quarters. Consumer goods imports are leading the way, while industrial goods imports show mixed performance. Experts advise businesses to closely monitor policy changes and respond flexibly to navigate the uncertainty. Companies should be prepared for potential disruptions to their supply chains due to evolving trade dynamics and economic conditions.

01/22/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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EXW Pricing Crucial for Crossborder Ecommerce Profits

EXW Pricing Crucial for Crossborder Ecommerce Profits

Accurately estimating the EXW price is crucial for profitability in cross-border e-commerce. EXW (Ex Works) means the seller only delivers the goods at their premises. Precise estimation requires considering factors like product cost, packaging fees, and internal transportation costs. Mastering the EXW price allows businesses to take the initiative in cross-border trade and enhance competitiveness. Understanding all associated costs under EXW terms is vital for effective cost control and maximizing profit margins in the global marketplace.

01/23/2026 Logistics Encyclopedia
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10 Chinese Business Habits to Avoid in Global Deals

10 Chinese Business Habits to Avoid in Global Deals

This article reveals ten common “Chinese habit” pitfalls in foreign trade, covering communication styles, pricing strategies, order fulfillment, after-sales service, and cultural differences. By analyzing these issues and providing improvement suggestions, it aims to help foreign traders enhance cross-cultural communication skills and avoid potential order losses, ultimately achieving greater success in the global market. The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and adapting to different cultural norms to build strong relationships and secure successful deals.

01/23/2026 Customs Knowledge
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