West Coast Port Labor Dispute Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Aid

West Coast Port Labor Dispute Intensifies Chamber Seeks White House Aid

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has sent a letter to President Biden, urging the White House to intervene in the stalled West Coast port labor negotiations. The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have failed to reach an agreement, raising the possibility of port closures or strikes, which could severely impact the supply chain and economy. The Chamber urges the White House to appoint an independent mediator to avert a potential economic disaster.

01/21/2026 Logistics
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Diamond Painting Pen Tip Patent Dispute Risks Tros for Crossborder Sellers

Diamond Painting Pen Tip Patent Dispute Risks Tros for Crossborder Sellers

A cross-border e-commerce intellectual property rights case has emerged involving a design patent (D1049230) for a diamond painting pen tip replacement part, filed in the US by Chinese seller Mr. Wu. The case, numbered 26-cv-00358, is in the filing stage, although a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) has not yet been granted. Cross-border e-commerce sellers are advised to conduct self-checks of their stores to avoid selling infringing products that could lead to fund freezes and to strengthen their intellectual property awareness.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Copyright Dispute Spurs Tros Against 21 Ecommerce Stores Over Art Series

Copyright Dispute Spurs Tros Against 21 Ecommerce Stores Over Art Series

Cross-border e-commerce sellers beware! Keith Law Firm, representing artist Mary Elizabeth Hining, has initiated copyright protection measures, putting 21 stores at risk of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) freeze. The work in question is the "Dandelion Daydream" series. Sellers are advised to immediately conduct self-checks and remove potentially infringing listings. Furthermore, sellers should strengthen their copyright awareness to prevent infringement from the source and seek professional legal support when needed.

01/26/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Retailers Seek White House Help Amid East Coast Port Labor Dispute

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid East Coast Port Labor Dispute

The NRF is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the ILA and USMX to avert a potential strike on October 1st. The NRF believes that a strike would severely damage the U.S. economy and is emphasizing the need for a swift agreement. The organization highlights the potential disruption to supply chains and the broader economic consequences of a port shutdown, urging immediate action to facilitate a resolution and prevent widespread economic harm.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Port of LA Weighs Ban on Trucker Contractors Amid Labor Dispute

Port of LA Weighs Ban on Trucker Contractors Amid Labor Dispute

The Port of Los Angeles is considering banning freight companies that employ contract drivers, aiming to address long-standing labor rights disputes. This initiative seeks to regulate the market but has sparked debate regarding its legality, feasibility, and potential impact on the industry. This article delves into the labor rights issues, the impact of the port's motion, the industry's challenges, and future development directions. It calls for collaborative efforts from all stakeholders to seek a balance and sustainable development within the freight industry.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Amid Automation Dispute

East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Amid Automation Dispute

A new six-year agreement has been reached for US East and Gulf Coast ports, ensuring labor peace and paving the way for port development amidst automation. The agreement includes record wage increases, automation protections, and accelerated wage growth for new hires. It aims to balance worker rights with port efficiency, setting the stage for the US to play a more significant role in global trade. This deal addresses key concerns surrounding automation's impact on jobs while securing long-term stability for port operations.

01/30/2026 Logistics
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China Proposes Risk Reforms to Boost Global Trade

China Proposes Risk Reforms to Boost Global Trade

In 2007, China proposed to the WTO to promote trade facilitation through risk management. The proposal advocated for reduced inspections, differentiated treatment, and adherence to non-discrimination principles. It also emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of developing countries in the context of trade facilitation. The core idea centered on leveraging risk management techniques to streamline customs procedures and enhance international trade efficiency, while ensuring fairness and inclusivity for all WTO members, particularly those with limited resources.

02/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

Supreme Court Backs Ruling BNSF Must Pay Millions in Shipping Rate Dispute

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld a ruling ordering BNSF Railway to pay $345 million in damages and freight rate reductions to two power companies. The power companies challenged BNSF's coal transportation charges, arguing they were excessively high. This decision could impact railroad freight rate pricing mechanisms and spark further discussion regarding the regulation of the railroad industry. The ruling reinforces the principle that railroads must justify their rates and potentially opens the door for similar challenges from other shippers.

01/22/2026 Logistics
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Sierra Leone Boosts Trade with WCO Customs Upgrade

Sierra Leone Boosts Trade with WCO Customs Upgrade

The World Customs Organization (WCO) assessed Sierra Leone Customs' valuation capabilities to support its WTO commitments and enhance trade facilitation and revenue management. This assessment aims to identify areas for improvement and provide targeted capacity building initiatives. By strengthening customs valuation procedures, Sierra Leone can ensure accurate revenue collection, streamline trade processes, and promote a more transparent and efficient trading environment. The WCO's support is crucial for Sierra Leone to effectively implement its WTO obligations and achieve sustainable economic growth through improved trade practices.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Canada Rail Strike Averted Supply Chain Secured

Canada Rail Strike Averted Supply Chain Secured

A breakthrough in the Canadian railway labor dispute occurred with the Labor Minister's intervention, directing the CIRB to arbitrate and demanding resumed operations. CN has ended its work stoppage, while CPKC awaits the CIRB order. This event significantly impacted the North American supply chain, prompting calls from various parties to resolve the dispute quickly and restore rail transport. The situation highlights the vulnerability of supply chains to labor actions and the importance of swift resolution mechanisms in essential industries.

01/28/2026 Logistics
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