Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Mississippi River Drought Threatens US Supply Chains

Drought conditions have lowered the Mississippi River to its lowest level in a decade, causing waterway closures, hundreds of stranded vessels, and hindered agricultural product transport, leading to soaring freight costs. Concurrently, US imports are projected to fall to a near two-year low, reflecting weakened demand and ongoing supply chain challenges. The combination of extreme weather events and slowing global demand is exacerbating economic uncertainty. The low water levels are severely impacting the ability to move goods along this vital waterway.

12/29/2025 Logistics
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Amazon and Walmart Compete for Supplier and Worker Loyalty

Amazon and Walmart Compete for Supplier and Worker Loyalty

Amazon and Walmart are competing fiercely for the favor of suppliers, sellers, and employees. While Amazon leads in the e-commerce market, investor confidence is affected by the economy. Walmart, however, is gaining traction due to its strength in essential goods management and physical retail presence, demonstrating more stability in talent acquisition and supplier partnerships. The ultimate winner will be determined by who can best satisfy the needs of all parties and maintain a competitive edge in the long run.

US West Coast Crossborder Logistics Face Zeroshipping Risks

US West Coast Crossborder Logistics Face Zeroshipping Risks

Recent incidents of 'zero-freight' cargo acquisition and logistics company bankruptcies in the cross-border logistics industry expose internal issues and potential risks. 'Zero-freight' offers from freight forwarders may conceal traps like 'special goods,' cargo fraud, or tax refund scams. Sellers should choose reputable and financially stable logistics companies, sign detailed contracts, purchase cargo insurance, and remain vigilant to avoid losses from pursuing seemingly cheap deals. Due diligence is crucial to navigate the complexities and potential pitfalls within cross-border shipping.

Amazon Speeds Up Removal of Unsellable FBA Inventory

Amazon Speeds Up Removal of Unsellable FBA Inventory

Amazon FBA New Rule: Effective October 14th, the automatic removal cycle for unsellable inventory is shortened from 30 days to 14 days, with removal frequency increasing to twice a month. Sellers need to strengthen inventory management, regularly check and optimize product quality, and promptly handle unsellable inventory to avoid losses. It is recommended to establish overseas warehouses or after-sales points to handle high-value goods. This change necessitates proactive inventory control and potentially alternative solutions for managing unsellable items.

12/30/2025 Logistics
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Amazons Transparency Program Cuts Counterfeits Effectively

Amazons Transparency Program Cuts Counterfeits Effectively

Amazon's Transparency Program combats counterfeit products by assigning unique "Transparency codes" to items, enabling brands and consumers to verify authenticity. Registered brands apply these codes to their products, which can be scanned and verified by Amazon fulfillment centers and consumers. While the program incurs costs, it effectively protects brand reputation and consumer rights, serving as a crucial anti-counterfeiting measure. It provides a traceability system that ensures product authenticity throughout the supply chain, fostering trust and preventing the sale of fake goods.

Ethiopian Airlines Enhances Cargo Tracking for Efficiency

Ethiopian Airlines Enhances Cargo Tracking for Efficiency

This article provides a comprehensive guide to Ethiopian Airlines cargo tracking, covering key information such as airway bill format, official tracking portals, real-time status interpretation, factors affecting delivery time, special cargo transportation requirements, and the service network in China/Asia. It aims to help users efficiently track shipments, resolve common issues, and achieve full control over air cargo management. The guide provides essential knowledge for understanding the tracking process and ensuring successful and timely delivery of goods via Ethiopian Airlines.

12/30/2025 Airlines
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Key Shipping Terms Explained for Global Trade Efficiency

Key Shipping Terms Explained for Global Trade Efficiency

This article provides a detailed explanation of POL (Port of Loading), POD (Port of Discharge), and the final port of discharge in foreign trade bills of lading. Through case studies, it helps readers understand the meaning and differences between these key terms. This understanding is crucial for avoiding potential problems in cargo transportation and ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods. By clarifying these concepts, the article aims to equip readers with the knowledge to navigate the complexities of international shipping.

Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

Philippines Boosts Customs Oversight with STCE Project

The WCO's STCE Project provided training support to the Philippine Customs on strategic goods control. Through online training, Philippine Customs officers enhanced their capabilities in strategic trade control, risk management, and the application of the Strategic Trade Atlas. The project strengthened cooperation between Philippine Customs and domestic agencies as well as international partners, contributing to national security and the international trade order. This initiative improved the effectiveness of customs operations in preventing the illicit trafficking of sensitive items and promoting responsible trade practices.

Bosnia Strengthens Customs IP Protections Against Counterfeits

Bosnia Strengthens Customs IP Protections Against Counterfeits

A workshop on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) protection was held in cooperation between the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Indirect Taxation Authority of Bosnia and Herzegovina (ITA BiH). The aim was to enhance the capacity of Bosnian customs officers in combating counterfeit goods. The workshop covered legal and regulatory learning, IPM platform application, promotion of public-private partnerships, and strengthening customs control capabilities. This is significant for improving the fight against counterfeiting in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider region.

Costa Rica Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Training

Costa Rica Boosts Customs Efficiency Via HS Training

The WCO, with the support of the Korea CCF, co-organized an HS workshop with Costa Rican Customs to enhance officials' HS skills. The workshop covered classification systems, rules, laboratory practices and other relevant topics. This initiative aims to improve the application of the Harmonized System, ensuring accurate classification of goods and ultimately contributing to trade facilitation by streamlining customs procedures and reducing potential delays. The training provided customs officers with the necessary knowledge and tools to effectively implement HS regulations.