This week, US imports are set to hit a two-year high, straining supply chains and raising concerns about port and rail congestion. The Canadian government and the union for over 9,000 border workers reached a tentative deal, preventing a potential strike. The Department of Homeland Security added three China-based companies to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List for their involvement in forced labor, prohibiting their goods from entering the U.S. starting June 21. The EU announced tariffs up to 38% on Chinese electric vehicles, potentially sparking a trade war. California’s AB5 worker classification law was upheld by the Ninth Circuit, despite opposition from the trucking industry. Additionally, the International Longshoremen’s Association suspended contract talks with the US Maritime Alliance over automation issues, heightening strike risks at East and Gulf Coast ports. Read the full articles for comprehensive coverage on these developments.
Weekly Freight Report: June 14, 2024
June 14th, 2024
Logistics Players Brace For US Supply Chain Stress Test As Imports Hit A High
US imports are set to reach their highest levels in two years, challenging the resilience of supply chains and evoking concerns of potential congestion, particularly in the rail system and ports.
Strike Averted After Canadian Border Workers Reach Tentative Contract
The Canadian government and the union representing over 9,000 Canada Border Services Agency workers reached a tentative agreement, preventing a potential strike that could have begun on Friday, and ensuring continued border safety and security.
Forced Labor Focus on Three Sectors Increases
The Department of Homeland Security added three China-based companies to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act Entity List for their involvement in forced labor, prohibiting their goods from entering the U.S. starting June 21.
Trade War Looms as EU Announces Tariffs of Up to 38% on Chinese EVs
The EU has announced tariffs of up to 38% on imports of Chinese electric vehicles, potentially igniting a trade war with China, following a nine-month investigation into unfair state subsidies for Chinese battery electric vehicles.
California’s 9th Circuit Upholds AB5 Law
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld California’s AB5 worker classification law, which aims to prevent businesses from misclassifying workers as independent contractors, despite opposition from the trucking industry and gig economy companies who argue it imposes undue burdens and violates constitutional protections.
East Coast and Gulf Coast Ports Face Strike Threat as ILA Halts Labor Negotiations
The International Longshoremen’s Association has suspended negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance over a new labor contract due to the use of automated technology at port terminals, escalating the risk of strikes at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports.
