Rare Earth
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China Tightens Rare Earth Exports Despite U.S. Deal

It’s the summer of 2025, and if you’re in manufacturing, tech, or defense, you know rare earths aren’t just a buzzword they’re the backbone of everything from electric cars to advanced missiles. So when the U.S. and China announced a rare earth “breakthrough” pact earlier this year, many hoped the supply crunch was finally over….

Racing the Tariff Clock: Why Global Goods Trade Is Surging in 2025
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Racing the Tariff Clock: Why Global Goods Trade Is Surging in 2025

If you feel like there’s a sudden rush in global shipping lanes this year, you’re not imagining things. Around the world, importers are in a full-on sprint to get goods across borders before a wave of new tariffs hits. The result? A remarkable, if temporary, surge in global trade that’s reshaping how companies manage their…

iPhone
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U.S.-EU Trade Tensions Escalate as Trump Targets Apple and European Imports

President Donald Trump reignited global trade tensions on Friday, threatening to impose a 50% tariff on all imports from the European Union and warning Apple that iPhones not made in the United States could face a 25% tariff. The announcement, made via social media, sent shockwaves through financial markets and raised the stakes in ongoing…

What to Expect in the Next 90 Days
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What to Expect in the Next 90 Days

The recent U.S.-China trade truce has sent ripples through the direct-to-consumer (DTC) import industry. With tariffs on Chinese goods dropping from 145% to 30% for a 90-day window, brands, marketplaces, and consumers are all recalibrating. But the story is more complex than a simple cost cut—especially for e-commerce giants and small sellers who built their…

US and China Deal
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U.S.-China Trade Agreement Ushers in 90-Day Tariff Relief

In a major breakthrough for global trade, President Donald J. Trump has announced a new agreement with China that dramatically reduces tariffs, suspends retaliation, and sets the stage for ongoing economic dialogue between the world’s two largest economies. The deal, reached after intensive negotiations in Geneva, is being hailed by the White House as a…

community

Navigating Global Trade Uncertainty: Essential Skills for Business Success

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:…

EU

New EU Import Control System 2 (ICS2) Release 3 Requirements Unveiled

EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) Release 3 is set to introduce a pivotal shift in the pre-arrival safety and security system for the European Union, with the aim of fortifying customs processes and strengthening trade security. The upgraded IT system, slated for implementation on June 3, 2024, necessitates a comprehensive data collection mechanism for…

Money

China $1 Trillion Trade Surplus, U.S. Import Surge, and California’s Wine Supply Chain

China Nears Record $1 Trillion Trade Surplus Amid Global Economic Concerns China is close to achieving a record-breaking $1 trillion trade surplus, potentially leading to trade imbalances and conflicts with major global economies. The surge in China’s goods trade surplus to $785 billion in the first 10 months of the year, an increase from previous…

Tariffs ahead

Russian Sanctions, Section 301 Tariffs, and Zero Tax Rates

Nickel Market Adjusts to Shifting Supply Dynamics Amid Russian Sanctions The nickel market is no longer concerned about losing Russian supply due to Western sanctions. Russian President Vladimir Putin’s suggestion to cap nickel exports has not had a significant impact on the market, with prices falling and surplus nickel flooding the market. This surplus has…

Chinese Cars
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Surging Exports Beat Forecasts, New Ford Partnership, and Critical Supply Chain Resilience

Surging Exports Beat Forecasts, Imports Disappoint Amid Domestic Demand Woes China’s export sector showed robust growth, with surging exports at the fastest pace in nearly 1.5 years in August, signaling manufacturers rushing out orders to avoid anticipated tariffs from various trade partners. In contrast, import figures fell short of expectations, reflecting weak domestic demand. The…

Port Strike
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The Impending US Port Strike: A Looming Crisis for Global Trade

Labor negotiations between the US Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) have reached a critical point, with a looming threat of a massive strike at US East and Gulf Coast ports. In this blog, we will delve into the key issues, potential implications, and the calls for intervention to avert a crisis…

Manufacturing in the US, Increase in Imports, and Stricter Exporting Rules

Manufacturing in the US, Increase in Imports, and Stricter Exporting Rules

Best Site Incentives for Manufacturers in the U.S. With manufacturing playing a crucial role in the nation’s economy, states are actively competing to attract businesses through various incentives such as tax credits, grants, and special programs. States like California, New York, Texas, Florida, Indiana, and Illinois are highlighted for their specific incentives aimed at enhancing…