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…
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,…
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…
As the Lunar New Year approaches, ocean carriers on the Asia-US trade lane are aggressively pushing for General Rate Increases (GRIs), aiming to capitalize on the seasonal demand surge and an already tight market environment exacerbated by the Red Sea crisis. This crisis, prompted by security concerns and attacks against commercial shipping, has led to…
The Red Sea, a crucial artery for global trade, has recently become a hotspot for geopolitical tensions that have far-reaching implications for the world’s supply chains. The conflict involves attacks by the Houthi rebels in Yemen, primarily targeting commercial vessels navigating through the strategic waters that connect Asia with Europe and the United States. Let’s…
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…
Overall Demand, especially in US container imports has been consistent in line with pre-COVID peak season patterns. With increased security threats in the Red Sea, importers may experience delays due to vessels being rerouted. The Panama Canal is still a point of concern with significantly reduced transits of larger container ships. With both of these…
If you are an importer of products including non-composite wood, wicker or rattan furniture, cork products, or certain essential oils, you will want to start preparing for additional import documentation and reporting requirements coming in early 2024. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) will be implementing Phase VII of The Lacey Act. This…
Understanding the Latest Section 301 Tariff Exclusions Extension The Biden administration has extended hundreds of Section 301 tariff exclusions on numerous goods imported from China until May 31. This move, affecting more than 300 various products as well as 77 medical care items essential to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, reflects the administration’s ongoing efforts to…
Dear Friends, As we bid farewell to 2023, I think it’s important to pause and reflect on the past year and consider how we might prepare for the future. 2023, with its ups and downs, passed with much less volatility compared to previous years. As things largely returned to “normal,” we saw ocean carriers more…