AcrossTheTrax - January Edition 2025
A message from JF Moran's CEO, Betty Robson:
The exciting shift into 2025 brings with it a wave of developments in international trade, with potential regulatory shifts and changes in international relations on the horizon. While dynamic change has always been a hallmark of this industry, recent times have brought a more accelerated rate of change than we are used to seeing. These shifts present both challenges and opportunities, requiring innovative approaches to trade solutions and a deep understanding of the evolving compliance landscape.
Despite the uncertainties ahead, our team remains focused on addressing these changes and is ready to adapt and guide our clients through them. We are dedicated to implementing forward-thinking trade solutions customized to address your unique needs and ensure your business's continued success.
At JF Moran, we recognize that you have many options when choosing a business partner, and we are deeply honored that you continue to place your trust in us.
Former President Jimmy Carter, Key Figure in Freight Transport Deregulation, Passes Away at 100
Former President Jimmy Carter is well known for humble beginnings as a peanut farmer and descendant of everyday middle-class Americans, as well as his humanitarian work with the Carter Center and beyond. Less talked about is the immense impact he made on foreign relations in regard to trade during his presidency. Former President Jimmy Carter's presidency (1977–1981) marked a pivotal shift in U.S. trade and diplomacy, emphasizing fairness and global cooperation. His administration advanced the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), reducing barriers to stimulate international commerce and foster peace. Carter prioritized equitable trade opportunities for developing nations through initiatives like the North-South dialogue. This approach demonstrated Carter's commitment to a world where economic progress was shared rather than concentrated in the hands of a few powerful nations. Notable achievements included normalizing relations with China in 1979, paving the way for a significant trading partnership, and addressing energy crises to stabilize markets. Despite challenges, Carter's policies reflected ethical leadership and reinforced trade as a vital tool for diplomacy and global unity.
Article Source: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/former-president-jimmy-carter-key-deregulator-of-freight-transportation-dies-at-100
Update on ILA-USMX Negotiations: Agreement Reached
The much-anticipated negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a successful conclusion. A tentative six-year master contract agreement was announced on January 8, 2025, effectively averting a potential strike that threatened to disrupt operations at East and Gulf Coast ports.
领英推荐
Key Highlights of the Agreement
Background on the Negotiations
The ILA and USMX negotiations had reached a standstill late last year, with automation and wage increases being primary points of contention. Back in October 2024, approximately 45,000 ILA members staged a three-day strike across East and Gulf Coast ports—the first of its kind since 1977. This led to a temporary contract extension, including a significant 62% wage increase over six years, while leaving unresolved issues for future discussion.
Resolution and Next Steps
Industry Impact
The resolution of these negotiations has been met with widespread relief across the shipping industry. Experts had warned that a prolonged strike could have severely disrupted supply chains nationwide, affecting retail inventories, manufacturing operations, and more. Many companies had already begun adjusting supply chains in anticipation of potential bottlenecks. The successful agreement between the ILA and USMX represents a significant step forward in balancing technological progress with job security in the maritime industry.
JF Moran will continue to monitor developments in the industry and provide updates to ensure our partners are well informed and prepared for any changes. As always, we remain committed to supporting your international trade and logistics needs.
Sources:
Interested in speaking with one of our trade specialists to explore how we can support your organization in importing or exporting goods from the United States? Contact us at +1-800-944-1041 or [email protected], and let's get your next international trade project across the finish line!