In a significant move, the U.S. Department of Commerce has announced the initiation of an industrial base survey slated to commence in January 2024. This survey marks a pivotal step in comprehensively analyzing the capabilities and challenges of the broader U.S. semiconductor supply chain and national defense industrial base. The primary objective is to establish…
The shipping industry is witnessing a notable shift towards the adoption of alternative fuels for cargo ships, reports the Baltic and International Maritime Council (BIMCO). Currently, 1% of ocean-going cargo ships are prepared to utilize alternative fuels, contributing to 2% of the international fleet’s deadweight capacity. Additionally, another 1% of ships and 4% of deadweight…
The Biden administration is actively considering the prospect of increasing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and other products to enhance the competitiveness of U.S. clean-energy goods, according to sources familiar with the matter. Discussions on whether to raise duties on specific Chinese exports have been ongoing among officials from the White House and various Cabinet…
In the year 2023, a prominent e-commerce player made significant strides in diversifying its logistics and delivery services, extending its reach beyond its core platform. The company introduced innovative solutions such as “Supply Chain Services” and “Shipping Solutions,” all while optimizing its fulfillment network. These strategic moves have brought this entity closer to direct competition…
In a bid to address growing national security concerns stemming from the use of Chinese-sourced chips, the U.S. Department of Commerce has announced its intention to launch a comprehensive survey of the U.S. semiconductor supply chain and the national defense industrial base. The survey’s primary objective is to discern how U.S. companies are procuring “legacy…
As the holiday season sees a surge in e-commerce sales, retailers are reevaluating their strategies to manage returns effectively, a critical aspect of inventory management and supply chains. Despite economic uncertainties and tight budgets, U.S. consumers have shown strong support for retailers in 2023, with November retail sales up nearly 6% compared to the previous…
Amid the recent closure of two crucial railroad bridge crossings in Texas by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, shippers and freight brokerages are scrambling to find ways to minimize delivery disruptions. These border closures have raised concerns among businesses and supply chain professionals, prompting them to explore alternative options to keep their operations running smoothly.…
Business leaders from South Korea and China gathered in Seoul to renew their commitment to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the face of changing global economic dynamics. The meeting, organized by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), marked the fourth such gathering since its inception in 2018 and brought together prominent figures from key…
In a groundbreaking shift, the European intermodal rail freight market is witnessing a significant transformation, spearheaded by the emergence of global logistics conglomerates. This evolution, detailed in a comprehensive study by SCI Verkehr, is redefining the sector’s traditional dynamics. Historically, the European rail freight industry was characterized by the dominance of state-owned entities and a…
In 2023, the low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite industry is witnessing remarkable developments, with both commercial and technological advancements taking center stage. SpaceX’s Starlink service has reported positive cash flow, demonstrating the commercial viability of space ventures involving public and private sector collaboration. On the consumer side, Apple’s latest devices incorporate satellite communication features, while…