The U.S. signed a series of new trade agreements with Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, aimed at reducing trade imbalances, expanding market access, and strengthening regional economic partnerships across Southeast Asia. The new reciprocal trade frameworks...
News & Advisories
Trade Outlook: U.S.–China Framework Could Ease Pressure on Supply Chains
U.S. and Chinese officials reached a preliminary framework for a trade agreement that could pause escalating tariffs and delay China’s rare earth export restrictions. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the talks, held on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in...
Tariff Update: U.S. Escalates Duties on Canadian Imports, Impact Still Unclear
President Trump announced a 10% increase in tariffs on Canadian goods after an Ontario government ad aired during the World Series. It remains unclear which products will be affected. Most Canadian exports to the U.S. remain tariff-free under the USMCA, however, the...
IMO Delays Vote on Global Shipping Net-Zero Framework by One Year
Member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) voted to delay by one year the adoption of its global net-zero greenhouse gas framework for shipping. The motion, proposed by Singapore and pushed forward by Saudi Arabia, passed with 57 votes in favor, 49...
New U.S.–China Port Fees Impact Vessel Availability and Trade Routes
The U.S. implemented new port fees targeting Chinese-built and Chinese-operated vessels. Chinese vessel owners and operators calling at U.S. ports now face a $50 per net ton fee, while Chinese-built ships are subject to the greater of $18 per net ton or $120 per...
IMO Net-Zero Framework Vote
The International Maritime Organization is holding a pivotal meeting in London this week, where member states are set to vote on the adoption of a new net-zero framework for global shipping emissions. If approved, the framework would mark a historic step toward...
Rotterdam Port Congestion Update
A Dutch court has ordered Port of Rotterdam lashers to temporarily return to work for four days after an extended strike caused major port congestion and supply chain disruptions. The strike, which began October 8 created significant backlogs. The court ruled that the...
New Section 232 Duties on Timber & Wood Products – Effective Oct. 14
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released further guidance on new Section 232 tariffs on certain timber, lumber, and wood-based products under Proclamation 10976, effective October 14, 2025. Key Changes Softwood lumber/timber: 10% (all countries) Upholstered...
U.S.–China Trade Tensions Deepen as Both Sides Announce New Fees and Tariff Measures
Trade tensions between the U.S. and China have flared again as both countries announce new fees. China’s Ministry of Transportation confirmed new tonnage fees on U.S.-owned and -operated vessels calling at Chinese ports, mirroring the U.S. Section 301 fees set to take...
Norfolk Southern International Intermodal Changes
Norfolk Southern Railway is overhauling its international intermodal network to improve efficiency and expand East Coast service into the Midwest. The changes, effective October 20, include consolidating operations and adding new train capacity from major East Coast...