Navigating Uncharted Waters: Force Majeure, General Average, and the Baltimore Bridge Collapse

The Baltimore Bridge Collapse profoundly impacted the logistics and transportation sectors, highlighting the vulnerability of essential infrastructure. The collapse led to immediate and extensive consequences for freight and cargo movement, creating delays and logistical challenges.  This incident serves as a pivotal example for the logistics sector, illustrating the importance of contingency planning and risk management.…

An Uncertain and Turbulent Global Economy: Impacts on Global Trade and Logistics

Amidst the swirling currents of the global economy, marked by escalating geopolitical tensions, trade policy uncertainties, and the ever-present specter of economic instability, the World Trade Organization (WTO) finds itself at a crucial juncture. The recent biennial meeting in Abu Dhabi paints a vivid picture of an international community grappling with these complex challenges. Geopolitical…

The Looming Strike at East and Gulf Coast Ports

The potential for strikes at East and Gulf Coast Ports is not merely a local labor dispute but a pivotal event that could have far-reaching implications for the economy, supply chains, and international trade relations. At the core of the impending strikes are the negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States…

Transport and Port Updates – March 2024

Overall This week, the Drewry composite index experienced a 5% decrease, yet it has registered a 88% increase compared to the same period last year. The World Container Index (WCI) is now 146% higher than the average rates before the pandemic in 2019. Additionally, the average index for the year-to-date significantly exceeds the 10-year average,…

Transport and Port Updates – February 2024

Overall January witnessed a significant increase in worldwide air cargo demand, contrasting with the consistent demand for US container imports aligned with pre-COVID peak season patterns. The shift of Asia-Europe cargo from sea to air, spurred by disruptions in the Red Sea and the later Lunar New Year in 2024, adds to the complexity of…

Comment Period Open for Extension of Section 301 Exclusions

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has announced an extension for the previously reinstated Section 301 tariff exclusions on imports from China. This decision impacts 352 specific product categories, alongside 77 COVID-19-related exclusions, now extended through May 31, 2024. Section 301 authorizes the USTR to investigate and take action against any unfair…