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Commodities Brent crude remains above $90 per barrel as Hormuz operations remain disrupted
Brent crude held above $90 per barrel in early Thursday trade, up 0.41% to $92, while WTI rose 0.32% to $84.66, as the US-Iran war and Strait of Hormuz disruption kept the risk premium intact. Conflicting US and Iranian statements on the strait's status slowed shipping, while the UAE suspended financial transactions with Iran. Meanwhile, US crude inventories climbed 4.4 million barrels, topping expectations for a 600,000-barrel draw.
Logistics Mexican trucking group urges US to clarify B-1 visa revocations
Mexican trucking chamber CANACAR is urging U.S. Customs and Border Protection to clarify B-1 visa revocation rules, warning that inconsistent cabotage enforcement is pulling drivers off cross-border routes. CANACAR estimates 150–200 drivers in Mexicali and roughly 25,000 across the northern border have lost visas in 2026, threatening capacity on U.S.-Mexico lanes.
Commodities Hanwha establishes Hanwha Horizon USA to build US LNG trading and logistics arm
Hanwha Aerospace has created Hanwha Horizon USA, a new US company that will serve as the control tower for the conglomerate's global LNG operations, combining procurement, trading and logistics. The venture will initially supply Hanwha Energy's Yeosu power plant in South Korea before expanding LNG sales to utilities across Asia, according to Splash247.
Commodities US Natural Gas Rises as Texas Heat Outlook Boosts Power Demand
Nymex September natural gas futures settled 3.2% higher at $2.776/mmBtu as intense Texas heat lifted power demand. Houston temperatures are expected to average 100F from August 20-23, and ERCOT peak load could set a record this week. BNEF data showed Lower-48 dry gas production at 112.5 bcf/day, up 2.6% year-over-year.
Trade Trump Tariffs Fail to Dent India's Export Dependence on US; Share Stays Near 20%
The US remains India's largest export market at roughly 20% of shipments despite tariff rates peaking at 50%. Exports to the US reached $88.5 billion in the 12 months through July, while New Delhi accelerates FTA negotiations to diversify trade.
Logistics US Ends Extra Security Measures on Ships Calling Nigeria
The US Coast Guard removed Nigeria from its Port Security Advisory, ending 12 years of additional security requirements for ships trading from Nigerian ports to the US. The change takes effect August 19, 2026, following four US Coast Guard assessments that showed improved ISPS Code implementation.
Trade India's exports to US hold firm after a year of Trump's tariffs
US tariffs peaked at 50% on Indian goods before falling to 10%, yet the US still accounts for about 20% of India's exports. India signed trade deals with the UK, EU, Oman and New Zealand to diversify, while exports to China surged 42%.
Commodities Oil rises as Iran signals offensive stance, US rules out ceasefire extension
Oil prices climbed on Tuesday as Iran signalled a fully offensive military posture and the US ruled out extending a temporary ceasefire, heightening supply worries. Brent rose 0.3% to $91.14 a barrel while WTI gained 42 cents to $85.04, with Hormuz vessel transits falling to five on Saturday and none on Sunday.
Trade India Seeks WTO Consultations With US Over 50% Tariff-Rate Quota on Quartz Surfaces
India has approached the WTO for consultations with the US over a new tariff-rate quota of up to 50% on quartz surface product imports. The move follows India's $380 million in exports in FY26 and marks the fourth such consultation case with Washington.
Logistics World’s third-largest shipping line CMA CGM names Natasha Griffin as US chief
CMA CGM Group named Natasha Griffin chief executive of CMA CGM North America, based in Norfolk, Va. Griffin will oversee ocean shipping, logistics, intermodal and supply chain activities across the U.S. and Canada, succeeding Adeline Franger Chouraqui. The carrier handles 5 million container units annually in the region.
Commodities US expected to become India's top LPG supplier with 55% import share: OPEC
OPEC's latest monthly report projects the US will emerge as India's largest LPG supplier, accounting for about 55% of imports, replacing the Middle East Gulf. The shift follows a 2025 sales agreement and is supported by record US propane and butane exports to India, while Indian imports from the Middle East have fallen sharply amid supply disruptions.
Commodities Oil Holds Steady as Strait of Hormuz Nears Zero Traffic; Iran-US Talks Stall
Brent crude edged up 0.42% to $88.89 and WTI rose 0.21% to $82.57 as vessel traffic through the Strait of Hormuz nearly halted over the weekend. Kpler data showed only five commodity vessels crossed on Saturday and none on Sunday, versus 31 the prior weekend, while Iran-US talks remained stalled.
Logistics Canadian Border Officers Seize $6.6M in Vapes and Nicotine Pouches From US Semis
Canada Border Services Agency intercepted three US semis at Blue Water Bridge in four days, seizing CAD$6.6 million in nicotine vapes and pouches. The largest load was valued at CAD$2,983,500. Investigations are ongoing.
Trade US report names India among 41 countries enabling Chinese goods to bypass tariffs
A US report titled 'The Great Transshipment Scam' authored by Peter Navarro classified India and 40 other countries as enablers of Chinese tariff evasion. The report estimated $67 billion in US-bound goods were trans-shipped through Mexico, India, and Vietnam in 2025, costing $28 billion in lost tariff revenue. It named India's Pune-Gujarat-Chennai belt among 'Ugly Sister City pairs' enabling the practice.
Trade US 'shadow transshipment network' report names India among 40 countries aiding China tariff evasion
The White House Office of Trade and Manufacturing Policy has named India among more than 40 countries facing risks of becoming conduits for Chinese goods evading US tariffs. A new report divides the countries into three risk tiers, with India placed in Tier 1 alongside Canada, the EU, Japan and Mexico. Senior trade adviser Peter Navarro warned India and Vietnam against using transshipment to circumvent higher US tariffs.
Trade US report: more than 40 countries helped China dodge Trump tariffs, White House claims
The White House released a report Thursday alleging that more than 40 countries, including Canada, India, Mexico, Japan and South Korea, helped China evade US tariffs by routing exports through nations with lower duties. The report cited estimates of $30bn-$300bn in goods moved via transshipping and said the US is deploying AI tools to catch such practices.
Business US wholesale inflation slows to 4.7% in July: What comes next for Fed, consumers
US producer price index rose 4.7% year-on-year in July, down from 5.5% in June, while core PPI eased to 4.2%. The data is likely to factor into Federal Reserve discussions ahead of the September meeting, even as fuel costs rebound and consumer price growth outpaces wages.
Commodities India seeks more US LPG to cut West Asia reliance, aid trade deal
India has directed Indian Oil Corp., Bharat Petroleum Corp. and Hindustan Petroleum Corp. to source at least 15% of 2027 LPG imports through US term contracts, according to Bloomberg. The move follows the country's first US term deals of 2.2 million tons and record US shipments of 3.9 million tons this year. LPG consumption fell 16% year-on-year to 2.35 million tons last month as Strait of Hormuz disruptions triggered shortages.
Trade India in 'regular contact' with US on trade deal, says Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal
Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agarwal said India remains in regular contact with the US on the bilateral trade agreement. The first phase, finalised in February, awaits US movement on tariff advantage. India exported $87 billion goods to the US in FY26.
Logistics Appeals court upholds FRA two-person rail crew rule, rejects railroad challenge
A federal appeals court upheld the FRA's two-person rail crew rule, rejecting challenges from the AAR, ASLRRA, and six railroads. The 11th Circuit ruled that none of the industry arguments have merit, marking a victory for rail labor unions.
Logistics Truck crackdowns sideline 48 drivers, 159 vehicles across New York, Nevada, Arizona
State police enforcement in New York, Nevada and Arizona placed 48 drivers and 159 commercial vehicles out of service during recent campaigns, according to FreightWaves. The actions included 450 recorded inspections and 1,252 documented violations across the three states.
Logistics HMM to spend $135M expanding Washington United Terminals at Port of Tacoma
HMM has contracted HD Hyundai Samho to supply four cranes for Washington United Terminals at the Port of Tacoma, replacing two aging quay cranes and adding two new yard cranes. The $135 million expansion will raise annual capacity from 590,000 to 880,000 TEUs, with cranes due in 2028 and full completion expected in 2030.
Logistics Truck enforcement sweeps sideline 30 drivers, 49 vehicles across US, Canada
Truck enforcement sweeps across Arizona, Nebraska, New York and British Columbia sidelined 30 drivers and 49 vehicles, according to FreightWaves. The operations produced hundreds of violations and out-of-service orders, tightening capacity on major truck corridors.
Business EasyJet agrees to £5.7bn takeover by US firm Apollo after Castlelake pulls out
EasyJet has agreed to a £5.7bn takeover by US firm Apollo, according to BBC Business. The deal was announced after rival suitor Castlelake said it was dropping out of the bidding. EasyJet employs more than 19,000 people and flies around 1,200 routes across 35 European countries.
Commodities Record US Beef Prices Fail to Boost Rancher Profits as Cattle Supply Dwindles
US supermarket beef prices are 12% higher than a year ago, driven by the smallest cattle herd since 1951. But ranchers like Eric Gropper say record calf prices are offset by soaring input costs, and feedlots are also buying at all-time highs, according to BBC Business.
Logistics Energy Secretary signals Jones Act waiver extension as pump prices remain elevated
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said another temporary Jones Act waiver extension is likely, as the existing exemption has helped lower fuel prices in California and the East Coast. The current waiver expires August 16, and the White House is expected to extend it, though analysts say the impact on pump prices is small. Maritime groups and some Republican lawmakers oppose further extensions.
Trade Donald Trump's 'Liberation Day' tariff refunds hit $100bn, court filing shows
Donald Trump's administration has paid back $100bn (£78bn) in 'Liberation Day' tariff refunds to US businesses, roughly 60% of all tariff revenue collected under the policy, according to a US Customs and Border Protection court filing cited by BBC Business. Nearly $29bn in claims remains under review and $1.6bn is awaiting importers' banking details. Amazon received about $600m in refunds in the second quarter.
Trade India, US working towards finalising interim trade agreement, MEA says
The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that India and the United States are working towards finalising an interim bilateral trade agreement. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said both sides have done a lot of work, with certain issues still needing finalisation. A USTR delegation visited India in June to advance discussions.
Trade Piyush Goyal likely to visit US for G20 trade ministers meet next month
Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal is likely to visit the US for the G20 trade ministers meet beginning September 30, according to The Economic Times. The visit is expected to include bilateral meetings on boosting two-way commerce, with the India-US bilateral trade agreement and the US additional 10% tariff as key backdrop.
Commodities US moves to ease Arctic offshore drilling rules with new Interior proposal
The US Department of the Interior has proposed a rule through the Marine Minerals Administration to modernize federal regulations for exploratory oil and gas drilling on the Arctic Outer Continental Shelf. The proposal revises the 2016 Arctic Exploratory Drilling Rule, updating requirements on blowout preventer monitoring, source control, and relief rig capability, while supporting President Trump's executive order to develop Alaska's resources.
Finance Japan, US Back Yen in Rare Joint Intervention; Tokyo Signals More Possible
Japan's Ministry of Finance said it bought yen on July 31 in coordination with the US Treasury, citing excessive volatility. The intervention followed a September 2025 joint statement, and Tokyo said it will not hesitate to act again. Japan also cut its growth forecast to 0.9% from 1.3%.
Finance US and Japan Launch Rare Joint Intervention to Halt Yen Slide to 40-Year Low
Japan and the US confirmed a rare joint currency intervention to halt the yen's slide to a 40-year low. Bank of Japan data suggests Tokyo sold almost $59bn, while the US Treasury signalled further action. Both governments pledged to intervene again if disorderly moves continue.
Trade US Sanctions Iran’s Hormuz ‘Extortion Scheme’ and Eight Shadow Tankers
The US Treasury sanctioned Persian Gulf Marine Insurance Company and HormuzSafe Marine Services Authority for running an IRGC-backed extortion scheme that forces commercial vessels to purchase maritime insurance before transiting the Strait of Hormuz. OFAC also designated eight tankers and their owning companies for transporting Iranian crude oil, bringing the total shadow fleet sanctions to over 100 ships since the start of the year.
Logistics Employee Stock Ownership Drives Industry-Low 35% Turnover at Nussbaum Transportation
Nussbaum Transportation credits its 2018 employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) for an industry-low 35% driver turnover rate. The 600-truck carrier uses equity stakes, safety performance bonuses, and CEO outreach to retain drivers. It plans a second ESOP sale next year and is scaling at double its historic growth rate.
Logistics BNSF CEO assails UP-NS merger filing, says transcon will raise rates and prices
BNSF CEO Katie Farmer criticized the latest UP-NS merger filing, arguing it does not mitigate anticompetitive impacts and will raise rates for shippers and prices for consumers. The combined railroad would control 37% of North American rail traffic, with an additional 13% via a CN operating agreement.
Logistics Indian Oil to Acquire 50% Stake in VLGCs as US LPG Imports Surge
Indian Oil Corporation plans to acquire a 50% stake in very large gas carriers (VLGCs) as it prepares to increase LPG imports from the United States. The move responds to a sharp rise in US LPG purchases—volumes in June were 145% higher than February—while Middle Eastern supplies decline. The tender targets vessels of 80,000-93,500 cubic metres, with bids due September 7.
Commodities India Plans to Source Up to Quarter of 2027 LPG Imports From United States, Sources Say
India plans to buy up to a quarter of its liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports from the United States in 2027, according to three sources. The move would reduce dependence on the Middle East and help secure a trade deal with Washington. State refiners Indian Oil Corp, Bharat Petroleum Corp and Hindustan Petroleum are expected to issue tenders within one to two months for US LPG supplies.
Logistics US urged to create publicly backed container line to reduce foreign carrier dependence, report says
The Open Markets Institute report urges the US to create a publicly backed container shipping line to reduce dependence on foreign carriers, which control nearly 80% of global container capacity. The report alleges a 'container cartel' and proposes tighter FMC scrutiny, restored common-carrier protections, and expanded mariner training.
Technology Chip stocks plunge in US and Asia as AI investment doubts rattle markets
Shares in major chip firms fell sharply in the US and Asia as a sell-off in AI-related stocks deepened. South Korea's Kospi was temporarily halted after sliding 8%, with Samsung and SK Hynix down over 10%. Nvidia lost its position as the world's most valuable company to Apple, and analysts are questioning whether AI investments can become profitable.
Commodities Global crude oil prices plunge around 7% after US and Iran pause military strikes over weekend
Global crude oil prices plunged around 7% on July 27, 2026, after the United States and Iran paused military strikes over the weekend. Brent crude traded 7.2% lower at $89.74 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate fell 6.6% to $83.36 per barrel, according to News on AIR.
Commodities Oil price dives over 9% as US and Iran pause attacks, Brent drops below $88
The price of oil sank more than 9% on Monday, with Brent crude dipping below $88 a barrel, after the US and Iran paused attacks to give talks space. The fall follows last week's spike above $100 amid fears over the Strait of Hormuz and Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
Trade US Widens Mexican Cartel Crackdown to Tequila Makers and Baby Shoe Company in Largest CJNG Sanctions Package
The Trump administration imposed sanctions on more than 50 Mexican individuals and companies tied to the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), including tequila producers, a baby shoe manufacturer, and logistics firms. Announced by the Treasury Department's OFAC, the action freezes U.S. assets and prohibits business with sanctioned parties, targeting businesses allegedly used for money laundering and drug trafficking.
Trade New U.S. Tariffs Target Imports From China, Mexico, Canada and 57 Other Economies
The Trump administration replaced its temporary 10% global tariff with a new Section 301 tariff regime covering 60 economies that account for 99.4% of U.S. imports. The duties, ranging from 10% to 12.5%, took effect July 24, 2026, and are based on forced labor investigations. Hundreds of product exemptions and tariff-rate quotas for textiles were also announced.
Regulations & Compliance FMCSA Rejects Epilepsy Exemptions After Nearly Two Years of Approvals, Denying 70 Drivers
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) denied epilepsy exemption requests for 70 commercial drivers in two separate actions in June and July 2026, breaking a pattern of approvals that had lasted nearly two years. The denials cite insufficient evidence that the applicants would maintain a level of safety equivalent to federal standards.
Trade US Imposes 10% Tariffs on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, UK Over Forced Labour Investigation
The U.S. Trade Representative imposed 10% tariffs on India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the UK, and other nations following a Section 301 investigation into forced labour practices. The move comes as India and the US progress on a bilateral trade agreement.
Logistics Why America May Reflag Gulf Tankers Again: Strait of Hormuz Crisis Escalates
The US may reflag Gulf tankers again, escalating its escort operations in the Strait of Hormuz amid a direct conflict with Iran. According to Splash247, Iran's capabilities have grown since the 1987 Operation Earnest Will, with 17 damaged ships and 12 seafarers killed or missing since February 2026. The US already runs an improvised escort scheme, but formal reflagging would give insurers and shippers legal clarity to bring stranded tonnage back through the strait.
Logistics CSX Beats Q2 2026 Estimates as Intermodal Volumes Surge, Operating Margin Improves
CSX Corp. reported second-quarter 2026 earnings that exceeded Wall Street expectations, with revenue up 10.1% year-over-year to $3.94 billion and earnings per share of $0.54 beating estimates by 4.2%. The railroad saw a surge in intermodal traffic and a significant improvement in free cash flow from negative to positive $687 million, signaling strengthening demand across key freight segments in its eastern U.S. network.
Commodities Crude Oil Futures Rise as US Strikes on Iran Continue for 11th Day
Crude oil futures climbed on Wednesday as US forces continued strikes on Iran for an 11th consecutive day. September Brent reached $92.15/barrel and September WTI $85.25/barrel, supported by geopolitical tensions affecting shipping lanes. Analysts at ING Think noted that risks to Saudi exports from the Red Sea and disruptions at Russia's CPC terminal may leave Brent undervalued.
Logistics U.S. Government Plans First Nuclear Power Tests on Ships at Port of Long Beach
The U.S. Maritime Administration will sign a first-ever agreement with the Port of Long Beach to test small modular reactors (SMRs) for commercial vessels and port power. Separately, startup Bluecore Energy raised $10 million to develop floating barge-mounted SMRs. The testing could eventually reduce emissions and change energy use at the busiest U.S. container port.
Technology Hidden Car Alarm Device in Millions of US Vehicles Is a Hacking Risk – Patch Now
UC San Diego researchers discovered a severe Bluetooth vulnerability in the KARR Security System aftermarket car alarm, installed by dealers in over 2 million vehicles across the US. The flaw allows attackers to unlock, track, or disable ignition from Bluetooth range. Acrisure Protection Group has released a firmware patch; owners must manually update via the KARR app.
Regulations & Compliance FDA Denies Apologizing to Taylor Farms in Dispute Over Cyclospora Outbreak Recall
The FDA and Taylor Farms are in a public dispute over whether the agency apologized after a false positive test for cyclospora. The recall of iceberg lettuce from Central Mexico remains in effect, covering 27 states and products sold to Taco Bell and Walmart. Thousands have been sickened since May.
Commodities US fuel prices rise: Gasoline returns to $4 per gallon after Middle East flare-up
A report from Times of India indicates that US gasoline prices have risen to $4 per gallon after a Middle East flare-up. The headline highlights the renewed price level, though no further details on specific contracts or volumes were provided.
Manufacturing HD Hyundai and Kiewit Offshore Services Partner to Expand US Shipbuilding Capacity
HD Hyundai and Kiewit Offshore Services (KOS) have signed a strategic partnership agreement to expand US shipbuilding capacity and strengthen the American maritime industrial base. The collaboration will focus on fabricating ship blocks and modules, leveraging HD Hyundai's design and shipbuilding technology with KOS's large-scale fabrication expertise from Gulf Coast facilities.
Commodities Brent crude oil tops $90 as US and Iran intensify Middle East attacks
Oil prices surged on Monday, with Brent crude surpassing $90 a barrel, as the United States and Iran intensified attacks in the Middle East, disrupting energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent climbed 3.05% to $90.79, its highest since June 11, after a 15.9% weekly gain. The conflict escalated with US naval blockades and Iranian strikes on shipping, reducing transit through the strategic waterway.
Logistics US Forces Fire Hellfire Missiles to Disable Iran-Bound Tanker in Arabian Gulf
U.S. forces fired Hellfire missiles to disable the Curacao-flagged tanker M/T Belma attempting to violate a blockade toward Iran's Kharg Island terminal. The vessel ignored multiple warnings and is no longer transiting. The U.S. blockade began July 14 after the ceasefire collapsed. Crude oil futures stabilized at $78 per barrel with reduced Strait of Hormuz traffic.
Commodities US sees India emerging as key buyer of its cotton in 2026 as global demand shifts
Gary Adams, President and CEO of the National Cotton Council, stated that India is expected to emerge as a key buyer of US cotton in 2026, driven by lower domestic production and monsoon concerns. The USDA raised India's import estimate to 56.9 lakh bales, while global cotton demand is projected to increase 1.5-2%. Cotton prices on ICE reached a two-month high of over 82 cents per pound, supported by higher crude oil prices and supply uncertainties.
Logistics Port of Long Beach Posts Third-Busiest June on Record Amid Tariff Uncertainty and Front-Loading
The Port of Long Beach reported its third-busiest June on record, handling 779,000 TEUs, a 10.6% year-over-year increase, driven by front-loading ahead of the July 24 tariff deadline. Imports rose 11% while exports dipped 1%, and empty containers increased 14% as carriers clear docks. CEO Noel Hacegaba noted peak season has become a year-round strategy, with shippers moving holiday goods early and AI hardware imports strong. Intermodal surged but slowed rail transport. Trade policy uncertainties include the expiring temporary tariffs, USMCA renegotiation, and a new national security probe on copper.
Logistics Federal Grants Set $62 Million for Truck Parking in Kentucky, Wyoming, Louisiana, Mississippi, Illinois
The U.S. Department of Transportation released $1.73 billion in BUILD grants for 127 projects across 52 states, including $62 million dedicated to truck parking in five states. The funding also supports port, rail, and highway infrastructure improvements.
Trade US and Iran Trade Fire as Tensions Rise Over Strait of Hormuz
The US launched a new attack on Iran on Sunday evening, killing one person, according to Iranian state media. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) responded by striking US military bases in Kuwait, Jordan, and Bahrain. The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of conflicting claims—Iran says it is closed, the US insists it is open. Oil prices jumped 4.3% in Asia on Monday, with Brent crude at $79.26 a barrel.
Trade India, US Have Framework Trade Deal Ready; Signing Awaits Right Time: Official
An Indian government official announced that the framework for the India-US trade deal is ready and will be signed at an appropriate time. Negotiations on the broader bilateral trade agreement (BTA) are progressing well. The official also addressed ongoing Section 301 investigations by the USTR, which have proposed additional tariffs on India and other economies.