US Import Growth Slows Amid Trade Shifts

US Import Growth Slows Amid Trade Shifts

Descartes' latest report reveals that US import growth stalled in October, experiencing a year-over-year decline, indicating increased market risk. China's import share rose, but its total volume decreased, mirroring a general downturn among major trading partners. Performance varied between East and West Coast ports. Businesses should diversify their supply chains, optimize inventory, enhance risk management, and actively explore new markets to navigate the changing market landscape. The stagnation suggests potential challenges ahead for the US economy and highlights the need for proactive strategies.

01/07/2026 Logistics
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Emerging Ecommerce Markets Offer Untapped Growth Potential

Emerging Ecommerce Markets Offer Untapped Growth Potential

This paper delves into the potential and characteristics of three emerging cross-border e-commerce markets: Latin America, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. It recommends competitive product selection strategies tailored to each market, aiming to help cross-border e-commerce sellers seize opportunities and gain a market advantage. The article emphasizes the development potential of emerging markets while reminding sellers to pay attention to potential risks. By understanding these nuances, sellers can better navigate these dynamic landscapes and optimize their strategies for success.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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MENA Customs Boost Efficiency in Wcoled Workshop

MENA Customs Boost Efficiency in Wcoled Workshop

The World Customs Organization (WCO) held a workshop on organizational performance evaluation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, aiming to enhance regional customs effectiveness. The workshop covered core topics such as strategic planning indicator design and work area planning. Qatar Customs shared their experience in business intelligence exploration. Based on WCO standards, this event assists customs administrations in the MENA region to improve management and promote regional trade development. This initiative aims to foster efficiency and collaboration within the customs community.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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WCO and ZATCA Enhance MENA Customs Training to Ease Trade

WCO and ZATCA Enhance MENA Customs Training to Ease Trade

The World Customs Organization (WCO), in collaboration with Saudi ZATCA, organized a Harmonized System (HS) expert pre-certification workshop for the Middle East and North Africa region. This initiative aims to cultivate local experts, enhance regional customs capacity, and facilitate trade. Through a rigorous assessment and certification process, the WCO will expand its pool of experts, support regional capacity building efforts, and promote the standardization of global trade practices. The workshop is a key step in strengthening regional customs expertise and streamlining trade processes.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Saudi Customs Launches Single Window for MENA Trade

Saudi Customs Launches Single Window for MENA Trade

A regional workshop held by the World Customs Organization in Saudi Arabia focused on coordinating border management, Single Window implementation, and the application of the WCO Data Model in the Middle East and North Africa region. The conference emphasized the importance of strategic planning, business process re-engineering, and data harmonization. The aim is to facilitate regional cross-border trade and economic development by streamlining procedures, improving efficiency, and enhancing transparency. This initiative seeks to create a more seamless and effective trade environment within the region.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Ecommerce Giants Eye 70B World Cup Sales Boom

Ecommerce Giants Eye 70B World Cup Sales Boom

The Qatar World Cup has ignited the cross-border e-commerce market, with total retail sales in the Middle East and North Africa projected to reach $70 billion. The report reveals the hot-selling trends of World Cup-related products, such as jerseys and souvenirs. Sellers need to focus on market research, logistics support, and compliant operation to seize opportunities and achieve business growth. This event presents a significant chance for e-commerce businesses to expand their reach and capitalize on the increased consumer demand.

01/16/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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JD Logistics Expands UK Smart Warehousing Operations

JD Logistics Expands UK Smart Warehousing Operations

JD Logistics launched its "Smart Wolf Warehouse" in the UK, marking a significant advancement in its global smart logistics network. Leveraging automation technology and localized operations, JD is steadily expanding its presence in overseas markets, building an independent and controllable logistics system, and enhancing its global competitiveness. Acquisitions, such as the controlling stake in Ceconomy, and technological innovations in the Middle East further solidify its global footprint. This strategic move underscores JD Logistics' commitment to providing efficient and reliable logistics solutions worldwide, tailored to local market needs.

01/15/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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US Ports Face Shifts As Trade Dynamics Reshape Maritime Industry

US Ports Face Shifts As Trade Dynamics Reshape Maritime Industry

Global supply chains face challenges, intensifying port competition in the United States. Canadian ports are emerging, with infrastructure as a key factor. East Coast ports are gaining market share, and investments in mid-sized ports like Houston are proving effective. The Port of Los Angeles is expanding to address declining West Coast cargo volumes. Future port competition will focus on capital, efficiency, and interconnectivity. These elements are crucial for ports to thrive in the evolving global trade landscape and maintain their competitive edge within the supply chain.

01/21/2026 Port Encyclopedia
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US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

US Rail Merger Delay Threatens 85B Supply Chain Impact

The delayed submission of the $85 billion merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern has sent shockwaves through the industry. This merger aims to create a transcontinental railroad empire spanning the East and West coasts of the United States. However, it faces opposition from competitor BNSF and concerns from labor unions. The Surface Transportation Board's (STB) ultimate decision will determine the future landscape of the American railroad industry, impacting supply chains and competition. The outcome will significantly reshape how goods are transported across the nation.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Intermodal Transport Faces Postpandemic Congestion Capacity Crunch

Larry Gross highlighted the challenges facing multimodal transportation at the RailTrends conference, including congestion and capacity shortages, leading to market share decline. He emphasized the need to reshape the supply chain, focusing on resilience and capacity. Gross also predicted a future shift in freight volume from west to east. He urged the industry to avoid repeating past mistakes and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The presentation underscores the critical need for innovation and strategic planning within the multimodal sector to navigate current and future supply chain disruptions.

01/21/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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