Ongoing Panama Canal Drought Threatens Global Supply
Prolonged dry weather throughout Latin America is impacting global supply chains, although some relief is expected as the rainy season picks up pace in mid-June. The Panama Canal has been limiting the number of vessels passing through daily for months, causing bottlenecks and backups. Mexico has faced drought conditions for nearly a year, with total […]
25% Tariff Reinstated on Specific Previously Excluded Chinese Imports
Just days before the May 31, 2024, deadline for the expiration of a list of imports excluded from the 25% China tariffs, a decision was made to reinstate the 25% tariff on some products. The USTR decided to reapply the 25% tariff on a selection of previously excluded products, while the remaining items will […]
Global Container Rates On The Rise, Asia-US Prices Skyrocket
A key global trade inflation indicator is moving in the wrong direction as rising freight rates, reaching levels last seen in the early days of the pandemic, are causing problems in global trade and sourcing. Although container rates have not yet returned to the $20,000 peak seen during the COVID-19 era, rates for many popular […]
Strong Vehicle Sales despite Slowing EV Demand
While general auto sales remain relatively strong, EV demand has continued to wane as consumers are more and more weary of the logistics behind charging, repair costs and general long-term maintenance. The pivot in type of vehicle in-demand will impact the outlook for auto manufacturers and their suppliers, from wire & cable to exterior coatings […]
Industries Anticipate Fed Comments, Eager for News on Rate Outlook
A wide array of sectors, ranging from chemical and raw material manufacturers to downstream industries like luxury vinyl tile (LVT) and construction materials, are keenly observing the Federal Reserve’s upcoming statements regarding potential interest rate cuts. These sectors, which are intimately connected to the housing and renovation markets, stand to gain significantly from any improvement […]
