Read also: The Effects of Biden’s Tariff Increases on Chinese Products on the US Economy, Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs 

A recent column by the Center for American Progress (CAP) highlights how these tariffs signal the administration’s resolve to prevent China from undermining U.S. investments in key technologies, flooding the domestic market with subsidized or illegal goods, and stifling competition and innovation. The column illustrates the substantial scale at which the Biden administration’s incentives and investments are bolstering the U.S.’s capacity to manufacture future-defining technologies.

“The Biden administration’s new tariffs are smart and pragmatic. They show that you can stand up for workers and fight the climate crisis at the same time,” said Ryan Mulholland, senior fellow for international economic policy at CAP and co-author of the column. “These new tariffs, coupled with the Biden administration’s historic investments in American industry, are creating a foundation of U.S. industrial competitiveness for years to come.”

Mike Williams, senior fellow on the Domestic Climate team at CAP and co-author of the column, added, “The Biden administration has proved time and time again that it’s possible for the United States to lead the world’s clean energy transition while delivering high-quality union jobs and opportunities for workers. These tariffs are further proof that the Biden administration is delivering on its promise that climate action means good jobs for the American people.”

Through this strategic approach, the Biden administration is confident it is not only addressing immediate economic challenges but also laying the groundwork for sustained industrial competitiveness and a robust clean energy future.

The post Center for American Progress Column: Tariffs Show Biden’s Resolve to Protect U.S. Tech and Market Integrity appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

TMF Group, a leading provider of compliance and administrative services, has released the 11th edition of its annual Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI). The report analyzes 79 jurisdictions, representing 93% of global GDP and 88% of net global FDI flows, comparing 292 indicators related to business operations such as incorporation timelines, payroll, benefits, regulations, and tax rates.

Read also: U.S. Tariffs on China: Echoes of History and New Supply Chain Challenges

Simplest and Most Complex Jurisdictions

The Netherlands, Denmark, the UK, Hong Kong SAR, and the Cayman Islands remain among the ten least complex jurisdictions due to their stable tax systems, adherence to international financial standards, and regulatory environments. Conversely, Greece has been ranked as the most complex jurisdiction, particularly in accounting, tax, and employment rules.

US and China Trade Tensions

The US falls outside the top ten least complex jurisdictions for the second consecutive year, mainly due to the ambiguous Corporate Transparency Act and uncertainties surrounding UBO legislation, presidential elections, and foreign tariffs. Despite this, the US remains attractive for investment due to its skilled workforce and global reach.

Emergence of Bridge Economies

Trade tensions between the US and Mainland China, coupled with supply chain disruptions from the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia-related sanctions, have led firms to seek more resilient supply chains. This shift has increased investment in ‘bridge economies’ such as Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, and Vietnam, despite their inherent business complexities.

TMF Group’s Insights

TMF Group CEO Mark Weil emphasizes the correlation between low business complexity and higher wealth per capita, noting that bureaucratic burdens significantly impact business operations. Weil highlights the growing complexity faced by firms as they navigate new pathways through bridge economies, which are often difficult to operate in. TMF Group aims to support clients by simplifying investments and operations across these challenging locations.

Top and Bottom Ten Jurisdictions in Business Complexity

Most Complex:

1. Greece
2. France
3. Colombia
4. Mexico
5. Bolivia
6. Turkey
7. Brazil
8. Italy
9. Peru
10. Kazakhstan

Least Complex:

70. Jamaica
71. British Virgin Islands
72. Jersey
73. United Kingdom
74. The Netherlands
75. New Zealand
76. Hong Kong, SAR
77. Denmark
78. Curacao
79. Cayman Islands

TMF Group’s GBCI 2024 underscores the intricate landscape of global business operations and the evolving strategies firms must adopt to navigate increased complexity in a post-pandemic, geopolitically tense world.

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Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has announced that the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) will activate the USDA’s Disaster Household Distribution (DHD) program to provide immediate food assistance to residents of seven counties affected by severe weather. This emergency measure will enable the Houston Food Bank to deliver crucial aid to those impacted by recent storms, flooding, extended power outages, and road closures. Over a million homes and businesses in the Houston area lost power, and more than 40 school districts were forced to close due to the severe conditions.

“Our hearts go out to the people of Houston during this difficult time,” said Commissioner Miller. “The approval of this emergency food distribution program will offer immediate relief to families affected by these devastating storms and floods. We are grateful to the USDA and the Houston Food Bank for their dedication to supporting our fellow Texans in need.”

Food Distribution Program Details

The DHD program will enable the Houston Food Bank to provide pre-packaged boxes of nutritious, shelf-stable food directly to households in the affected areas, ensuring timely and essential support. The Houston Food Bank will collaborate with local agencies and organizations to efficiently distribute the food boxes to those in need.

Commissioner Miller’s Commitment

“We are dedicated to supporting recovery efforts and helping Houston residents rebuild their lives,” Miller emphasized. “The Texas Department of Agriculture will continue to partner with local organizations to provide necessary resources and assistance to those affected.”

This emergency food distribution initiative aims to bring immediate relief to Houston residents and ensure that those impacted by the severe weather receive the support they need during this challenging period.

The post Emergency Food Assistance Approved for Houston Residents After Severe Weather appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

After two years of growth, overseas shipments of petroleum decreased by -3.4% to 186M tons in 2023. The total export volume increased at an average annual rate of +1.2% from 2013 to 2023; the trend pattern remained consistent, with somewhat noticeable fluctuations being observed in certain years. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in 2017 when exports increased by 7%. Over the period under review, the exports reached the maximum at 213M tons in 2018; however, from 2019 to 2023, the exports failed to regain momentum.

Read also: Top Import Markets for Petroleum Bitumen

In value terms, petroleum exports dropped significantly to $121B (IndexBox estimates) in 2023. In general, exports, however, continue to indicate a relatively flat trend pattern. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in 2022 when exports increased by 57% against the previous year. As a result, the exports reached the peak of $144.8B, and then declined sharply in the following year.

Exports by Country

Mexico (50M tons) was the main destination for petroleum exports from the United States, accounting for a 27% share of total exports. Moreover, petroleum exports to Mexico exceeded the volume sent to the second major destination, Canada (18M tons), threefold. Brazil (8.8M tons) ranked third in terms of total exports with a 4.7% share.

From 2013 to 2023, the average annual rate of growth in terms of volume to Mexico totaled +7.7%. Exports to the other major destinations recorded the following average annual rates of exports growth: Canada (-0.8% per year) and Brazil (+1.8% per year).

In value terms, Mexico ($36.8B) remains the key foreign market for petroleum exports from the United States, comprising 30% of total exports. The second position in the ranking was held by Canada ($13.3B), with an 11% share of total exports. It was followed by Chile, with a 4.8% share.

From 2013 to 2023, the average annual growth rate of value to Mexico stood at +6.7%. Exports to the other major destinations recorded the following average annual rates of exports growth: Canada (-0.8% per year) and Chile (+0.6% per year).

Export Prices by Country

In 2023, the petroleum price amounted to $652 per ton (FOB, US), which is down by -13.6% against the previous year. Overall, the export price saw a mild contraction. The most prominent rate of growth was recorded in 2022 an increase of 51% against the previous year. As a result, the export price reached the peak level of $754 per ton, and then reduced in the following year.

There were significant differences in the average prices for the major export markets. In 2023, amid the top suppliers, the country with the highest price was Peru ($815 per ton), while the average price for exports to India ($191 per ton) was amongst the lowest.

From 2013 to 2023, the most notable rate of growth in terms of prices was recorded for supplies to China (+1.0%), while the prices for the other major destinations experienced a decline.

Source: IndexBox Market Intelligence Platform 

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Read also: MARAD Announces Nearly $20 Million in Funding Available for Small Shipyard Grants

The USMHP aims to enhance the movement of freight via America’s navigable waterways, presenting an efficient, sustainable alternative to road and rail transport. This initiative not only strengthens national supply chains but also reduces emissions and alleviates congestion.

Since its inception, the Marine Highway Program has distributed over $103 million to public and private organizations, fostering maritime transport options and funding essential freight infrastructure to bolster supply chain resilience.

The program’s evaluation criteria include the impact on goods movement, non-federal funding investment levels, project readiness, climate change and sustainability considerations, equity, and workforce development.

Applications must be submitted through grants.gov by 11:59 p.m. EST on July 12, 2024. For additional information, visit the USMHP website here. Potential applicants may also contact the USMHP staff via email at mh@dot.gov or by phone at 202-366-1123.

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Read also: Port of Lake Charles Surges into Top 10 US Ports for Cargo Handling

Before the pandemic, port officials rushed to dredge deeper channels to accommodate new mega-ships. At the same time, ports were also dealing with aging infrastructure and a critical need for upgraded infrastructure, which would allow for handling higher volumes of cargo. Over the last decade, the size of the mega ships arriving at America’s ports has more than doubled. 

Projects to deepen port channels are underway or have recently been completed because of the need to service Panamax ships—those that are too large to fit through the Panama Canal. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers did most of the dredging work, but the expanded waterside capacity has created an immediate need for landside infrastructure upgrades. Demand is high for everything from equipment, technology, cranes, transport vehicles, roads, railways, bridges and the construction of warehouse facilities.

Fortunately, funding is available for upgrading the nation’s port infrastructure. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law provided a long-term $17 billion allocation to support upgrading and expanding port infrastructure. The U.S. Department of Transportation announced last November another $653 million in funding for port projects. Most initiatives will be supported by consolidating federal funding with other revenue sources.

Read also: AMERICA’S TOP 50 POWER PORTS

The traditional type of port operations has evolved, and there is evidence of impressive innovation at many ports. According to officials, artificial intelligence (AI) will play a significant role as ports maximize operational efficiency to speed up the flow of cargo and reduce wait times for vessels. Since two-thirds of the available wind power is located over deep ocean waters, ports are also beginning to play a key role in deploying and maintaining floating offshore wind energy apparatuses. 

Officials at the Port of Long Beach in California will oversee a project to expand the capacity of roads and bridges that are used to move cargo. This will allow rail and truck traffic to accommodate projected increases in cargo throughput and alleviate existing congestion. There are two components of the project. The first involves widening a rail bridge and enhancing its safety by realigning it. The second component calls for upgrades to multiple roadways that must be widened, realigned and improved. Additionally, work will be done on the area’s storm drainage, warehouse facilities and utilities. 

In Washington, the Tacoma Husky Terminal will receive $54.23 million in federal funding to reconfigure the terminal for better truck circulation. The total project cost is estimated at $125.9 million. Currently in the design phase, the project is scheduled for construction in January 2025. The project will be designed to cover three objectives. First, a plan will be developed to reconfigure the container storage yard. That effort will include relocating utilities, light poles, slot drains and fire hydrants. The second objective will require the installation of reefer racks and additional power. A reefer rack is a storage container designed to store perishable cargo at freezing indoor temperatures. New utilities and fire protection systems will be added. The third objective will be to relocate some of the port’s support facilities and construct new ones. 

The Port of Wilmington in Delaware has secured a federal grant of $50 million to construct a container terminal. The terminal has been planned for several years, but recent funding has created new momentum. The container terminal is one component of a larger overall plan to update and expand the Port of Wilmington. Port officials currently have $120 million to work with, and planning documents outline initiatives representing project costs of up to $750 million. Other project plans include constructing a 2,600-foot-long wharf, dredging 3.3 million cubic yards of river sediments, excavating a berth and access channel and adding bulkheading to 3,200 feet of shoreline. 

Hawaii’s Department of Transportation announced it will invest $33.9 million to improve operational efficiency at the Port of Kawaihae. A funding allocation from the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration will cover approximately 70% of the project’s total cost. The initiative will include widening Kawaihae Road, adding concrete paving over 10 acres of the port’s cargo yard, implementing 80-foot mast lighting, installing raised transformer pads for additional electrical power pads, and relocating the port office building and maintenance shed. The remainder of the project cost not covered by the PIPD grant will be obtained through revenues received from harbor user fees. Construction is scheduled for 2025.

The Galveston Wharves received an award of $42.3 million from the Texas Department of Transportation for a proposed $50.1 million project at the West Port Cargo Complex. The project entails overhauling a 1,340-foot-long berth across two open slips and adding about 500 feet of berthing area for cargo and lay ships. Construction is expected to begin this year. Noteworthy is the fact that the Texas legislature made history in the last regular session by allocating $640 million for infrastructure projects throughout the state.

In Arkansas, a project with an estimated $18.8 projected cost is being designed for the River Valley Slackwater Harbor. When completed, the new harbor will accommodate up to eight barges at a time and feature a 50-foot-wide concrete deck for mobile cranes. Officials have expressed a desire to finalize a contract for construction services within six months so that work can begin by late 2024. 

Numerous port projects of all types are anticipated in 2024 and 2025. Most will include technology, light rail, renewable energy components, engineering and construction services. 

Author Bio

Mary Scott Nabers is president/CEO of Strategic Partnerships, Inc., a full-service business development firm specializing in procurement consulting, government affairs, research, and public-private partnerships. She founded SPI after co-founding Gemini Global Group and, before that, serving as a statewide office holder in Texas.

The post America’s Ports Surge Ahead: $5 Trillion In Funding Is Earmarked For Groundbreaking Infrastructure Overhaul appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

The European Commission (EC) has greenlit a €1.7 billion German state aid scheme to support rail freight operators, aiming to shift more cargo from road to rail and promote greener transportation methods. This initiative will subsidize the high operating costs faced by rail operators handling single and group wagon transport, which often struggle with economic viability due to their complex and less scalable nature.

Read also: Freight Train Derailment Sparks Fire Near US-Mexico Border

Single wagon load transport involves bundling individual or small groups of wagons from different consignors into one train, while group wagon transport maintains the same composition from origin to destination. Both methods face high costs due to switching, shunting, and lack of economies of scale. The EC emphasized that this state aid is environmentally beneficial and will not negatively impact competition and trade within the EU, as it merely aims to level the playing field between rail and road freight transport.

The approved financial aid will be dispensed as direct grants, with a maximum of €320 million annually, totaling €1.7 billion over five years.

US Intermodal Rail Transport Gains Momentum

In the US, intermodal rail transport from West Coast ports has been gaining significant traction. Rail operators BNSF and Union Pacific report increased volumes, partly due to the successful ‘Quantum intermodal service’ launched by BNSF and trucking company JB Hunt. This service, which began in November, targets highway freight that has traditionally never been transported by rail, aiming to convert it to rail transport.

Darren Field, JB Hunt’s intermodal president, highlighted the success of this initiative at an investor conference, noting the positive reception and long-term growth potential for the intermodal business through the Quantum product.

Rising transloading activities have also bolstered optimism about the future of intermodal transport in the US. This optimism is reflected in BNSF’s $1.5 billion Barstow International Gateway project proposal. This 4,500-acre complex will feature a block-swap yard, support yard, warehouses, and transload centers, facilitating the transfer of goods from international containers to domestic ones for eastbound rail transport. The project, which aims to reduce congestion at Los Angeles and Long Beach ports and eliminate the need for an 80-mile drayage to Southern California intermodal terminals, is expected to begin the permitting process by late 2027.

These initiatives in both the EU and US mark significant steps towards enhancing rail freight infrastructure and capacity, aiming to create more efficient, sustainable, and competitive logistics networks.

The post EU and US Drive Forward with Major Rail Freight Initiatives appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

Related Article: U.S. Increases Tariffs on Chinese Imports to Protect Domestic Industries

“Senior Biden administration officials said they delayed the start of some of the tariff increases to give U.S.  industries time to rejigger their supply chains. The White House said the new tariffs would apply to $18 billion  in products from China, with EV batteries, critical minerals, and medical products among the other goods  targeted. The tariff rate for Chinese semiconductors would double by 2025—to 50% from 25%.” Source:  WSJ. May 14, 2024 

Here’s a synopsis of how China may retaliate against the USA and its interests globally and in China  specifically: 

China is likely to respond to Biden’s tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) from Mexico in several ways.  Here are some potential actions: 

China may impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, targeting sectors that are strategically important to the  United States. This approach would mirror the U.S. tariffs on Chinese EVs and other products. 

Related Article: U.S. Tariffs on China: Echoes of History and New Supply Chain Challenges

In addition, China may put in place non-tariff measures to hinder U.S. companies operating in China. For  example, they could increase regulatory requirements, scrutinize companies’ imports, exports and other  operations, delay approvals, or create administrative obstacles for American businesses.  

China may also set up a production facility in Mexico to avoid direct U.S. tariffs, if they meet local  production requirements. As a matter of fact, despite US pressure on Mexico’s government not to offer any  incentives to China for its plan to build EVs in Mexico, according to Reuters, China’s BYD launched a hybrid  pickup in Mexico as US increased tariffs on EVs. Stella Li, CEO of BYD in the Americas, stated that those  trucks will be built for the Mexican market to satisfy the growing demand, and that BYD “has no plans to go  to the U.S. market, so this announcement (the increase in tariffs) does not impact us at all.”  

In addition, China may exert diplomatic pressure on the U.S. government, urging them to reconsider the  tariffs. This could involve high-level discussions or negotiations between the two countries. 

As a last resort, China may request that its consumers boycott U.S. goods including but not limited to EVs  made in the USA. Such boycott could impact the sales of US companies in the Chinese market.

The Biden tariffs’ impact is not limited to large corporations. The increase in tariffs on EVs will impact small businesses and entrepreneurs as well negatively and positively. 

Starting with the negative effects, inflation is front and center. The ultimate users will face higher prices  which may prevent them from purchasing EVs, therefore, a decrease in demand. As a result, dealers,  distributors, and solopreneurs will be affected negatively.  

In addition to inflation, financial disadvantage will affect small businesses and entrepreneurs who rely on  lower cost Chinese parts and who may not have the financial advantage (deep pockets) that allow large  corporations to withstand cost increases.  

Add to that the supply chain disruption as small businesses and entrepreneurs may not have any alternatives  to find suppliers/sellers who may offer competitive prices to match those of the Chinese manufacturers and  sellers. Even if they did, the minimum quantity required may be prohibitive to them financially and capacity  wise.  

VUCA, (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) created by the tariffs much larger headwinds  for entrepreneurs and small businesses than for large corporations who may be able to absorb cost volatility  and product availability.  

When it comes to domestic positive effects, small businesses and entrepreneurs may benefit from the tariffs  as domestic manufacturers may gain market share. As a result, benefiting small businesses and entrepreneurs  who are in the production, distribution, or sale of domestically manufactured EVs and parts. This market share  gain may result in an increase in employment for small businesses and entrepreneurs who are involved in  manufacturing, maintenance, or assembly.  

Moreover, the increase in domestic sourcing will put an upward pressure on cost due to higher domestic  wages caused by the increase in tariffs which will force importers to procure locally from US manufacturers  and suppliers, or internationally from countries where the import tariffs are much lower than those imposed  on Chinese products. In both scenarios, the cost reduction will benefit small businesses and entrepreneurs.  

The increase in tariffs may increase the stock value of clean energy startup companies. Due to the decrease  in Chinese competition, and the increase in domestic demand (if the current consumers’ behavior changes), clean energy startups will be better positioned to innovate. This will lead to new patents and additional product  launches to the market, which, in turn, will lead to an increase in investors’ confidence.  

This situation is complex. China’s response will depend on various factors, including political considerations,  economic interests, and the U.S.-China relationship at large. 

Diplomatic channels and negotiations will likely play a crucial role in determining the outcome.

Author Bio

Omar Kazzaz specializes in business strategy and development, contract negotiations, BPI (Business Process Improvement) as well as geopolitics and their effects on global trade, logistics and supply chain design, planning, and execution. Omar has 32 years of experience in international business, manufacturing, global logistics and supply chain.  

Mr. Kazzaz has been involved in numerous panel discussions on business negotiations, supply chain, global trade, and global logistics. His comments on international trade agreements, global manufacturing and supply chain have been quoted in publications such as The Charlotte Observer, The Journal of Commerce, Global Trade Magazine, Supply and Demand Chain Executive among other publications. 

Mr. Kazzaz holds an MBA in International Management from Thunderbird, The American Graduate School of International Management in Glendale, AZ, and a BA in German and Economics from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Besides his native Arabic language, Mr. Kazzaz speaks French and German.

The post The Effects of Biden’s Tariff Increases on Chinese Products on the US Economy, Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs  appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

Read also: Speedy Freight Launches First US Branch in Dallas, Texas

The state-of-the-art warehouse will feature Alta EXPERT refrigeration and a direct rail spur, offering significant logistics cost savings and increased shipping efficiency. It will be connected to Upfield’s New Century production plant by an above-ground conveyor bridge, allowing seamless transfer of products like Country Crock® and I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter® directly into storage.

In addition to serving Upfield, the warehouse will have 100,000 square feet available for other customers. Located near Interstate 35 and the BNSF Railway intermodal facility, it promises excellent transportation access, with 85% of the U.S. reachable within two days.

Kevin Coleman, CEO of CJ Logistics America, emphasized the company’s growing footprint in the cold storage market, following their new facility in Gainesville, Georgia. Upfield’s North America Supply Chain Director, Byron Alvarez, highlighted the project’s alignment with their sustainability goals and supply chain efficiency.

Marty Khait of Yukon Real Estate Partners and Axel Anderson of Yukon Real Estate Partners praised the innovative solution of the over-rail conveyor bridge, reflecting a commitment to operational efficiency and sustainability.

This new facility marks a significant investment in the greater Kansas City area, enhancing the region’s logistics infrastructure and supporting future growth.

The post CJ Logistics America to Open Cold Storage Warehouse in Kansas City appeared first on Global Trade Magazine.

UK-based third-party logistics provider Speedy Freight has announced a significant global expansion with the opening of their first office in the United States, located in Dallas, Texas.

Read also: 3 Strategies For Importing Goods From The U.S. To Europe

Continuing their rapid growth trajectory, Speedy Freight is introducing its renowned freight and fulfillment solutions to the US market. Dallas was selected for its strategic central location, large size, and high level of commercial activity.

The new Dallas branch will offer comprehensive 3PL services, including full truckloads, less-than-truckloads, drayage, expedited shipping, and cross-border operations. Speedy Freight aims to cater to a wide range of businesses, from start-ups needing efficient supply chain management to international corporations seeking streamlined operations.

Speedy Freight is equipped with advanced, in-house developed technology to meet specific freight and fulfillment requirements. The company specializes in quality assurance and reliability, ensuring finely tuned logistics plans for industries ranging from fast-moving consumer goods and high-volume tradeshows to time-sensitive healthcare commodities.

The company provides inventory and supply chain management for businesses of all sizes, with user-friendly technology that integrates seamlessly with online stores, ensuring hassle-free operation and comprehensive stock management. Speedy Freight also offers warehousing capacity and cross-dock capabilities.

This US expansion follows Speedy Freight’s recent growth in the EU, with new locations in Dublin and Spain. Their universal transportation and warehousing management system provides clients with full visibility of quotes, active jobs, and invoices through an online portal, supported by knowledgeable local teams offering excellent customer service.

Leading the US sales division is Starr Bollefer, Vice President of Sales since March 2024, who expressed excitement about the company’s US venture and commitment to delivering exceptional service to American customers.

John Munnelly, Chief Operating Officer at Speedy Freight, stated, “Expansion to the USA has always been a goal for the business, and thanks to our outstanding year-on-year growth, we feel now is the perfect time to open our first North American branch. The high level of commercial activity in and around Dallas-Fort Worth makes it the perfect location for Speedy Freight, and we’re confident our team will hit the ground running with their personalized logistics service offerings.”

Mike Smith, Chief Executive Officer at Speedy Freight, added, “This is a massive milestone for Speedy Freight, and we see a huge opportunity in North America for future expansion. Our franchising model is perfectly suited to the US business landscape, and we’re confident that this is just the first of many USA offices.”

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