In a surprising turn of events, China’s export figures for December 2024 have exceeded expectations, showcasing the resilience of the world’s second-largest economy amid ongoing trade tensions. This development has significant implications for global trade dynamics and economic forecasts for 2025. Export Growth Surpasses Predictions China’s exports in December 2024 grew by an impressive 10.7%…
This Chinese New Year 2025 approaches, businesses worldwide are gearing up to navigate the annual disruptions to global supply chains. This year, the holiday begins on January 29, 2025, and its effects are expected to ripple through international trade for weeks before and after. Here’s how you can mitigate supply chain volatility during this critical…
Jorge Torres, President of Interlink Trade Services and a U.S. Customs Broker, recently shed light on the potential ramifications of President-elect Trump’s proposed tariffs on the Mexico-USA trade relationship. These Mexican tariffs, set to potentially take effect on January 20, 2025, could significantly alter the trade landscape between the two nations. Key Points of Trump’s…
Welcome to our mid-week update on the latest happenings in the world of international trade. 1. Port of Los Angeles Reports Record Container Volumes The Port of LA, North America’s leading container port, has announced record-breaking container volumes for the fourth quarter of 2024. Key highlights include: This surge in activity at the Port of…
Pharmaceutical Trade Compliance Learn the top 6 pitfalls companies often overlook, from misunderstanding FDA/customs triggers to relying on foreign suppliers. Insider tips from an expert consultant to streamline your supply chain and stay compliant. Don’t let trade compliance issues derail your pharmaceutical business. SHOW REFERENCES Host: Andy Shiles Host/Producer: Lalo Solorzano Co-Producer: Mara Marquez There…
In a significant development for the U.S. maritime industry, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have announced a tentative agreement on a new six-year Master Contract. This deal, reached on January 8, 2025, averts a potentially crippling strike that was set to begin on January 15, 2025.The agreement covers…
As we step into 2025, the landscape of international trade is undergoing significant changes. Trade professionals are facing increasingly stringent regulations and harsher penalties for non-compliance in both import and export activities. This shift demands a proactive approach to trade compliance training and management. Evolving Regulatory Environment Recent updates indicate a tightening of trade regulations…
In the glittering world of fast fashion, where trendy outfits are just a click away, Shein has emerged as a digital-age retail phenomenon. But beneath the surface of its Instagram-friendly aesthetics and rock-bottom prices lies a complex narrative of ethical challenges that are forcing global policymakers and consumers to take a hard look at the…
In today’s complex global business environment, companies face unprecedented challenges that demand innovative approaches and strategic thinking. The landscape of international trade continues to evolve rapidly, requiring businesses to develop robust skills and adaptive strategies to remain competitive. Essential Skills for Global Trade Success Strategies for Skill Development To effectively address these challenges, businesses should:…
The impending retirement of Troy Miller, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), on December 19, 2024, marks a significant turning point for the agency. As TroyMiller prepares to step down, the trade industry braces for potential shifts in CBP’s future strategies and operations. A Legacy of…
The U.S. goods trade deficit widened significantly to $102.86 billion in November 2024, exceeding market expectations and marking the highest level since April 2022. This increase reflects ongoing challenges in balancing trade flows, driven by a notable rise in imports that outpaced export growth. Key Contributors to the Widening Deficit Several factors played a critical…
The Tariff Threat President-elect Donald Trump’s 25% tariff proposal on all products from Canada and Mexico, citing concerns about the flow of drugs and unauthorized migrants to the U.S. This proposal has sent shockwaves through the North American trade landscape, prompting strong reactions from Canadian officials. Ontario’s Retaliation Plan Ontario Premier Doug Ford has taken a…
