Customs Testing Delayed – Testing for the ocean and rail manifest portions of the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) has been delayed until at least August by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Originally, the testing was to begin in late 2010. The ocean and rail systems are among the last hurdles before implementing a new ACE.
Read more from the JOC.
Japan Exports Rebound – Japanese exports took a massive hit in the aftermath of the March earthquake and tsunami. However, for the first time in three months, the island country posted an unexpected trade surplus. While still below last year’s levels, this is a positive indicator that the hard hit automotive and technology sectors are beginning to recover.
Read more from the BBC.
Counterfeit Furniture at High-End China Retailer – A retailer in China famous for marketing imported Italian furniture has been caught in scandal involving counterfeit products. The company allegedly sold some furniture marked as high-quality Italian merchandise that was actually manufactured in southern China. Customs officials claim that the counterfeit goods were stored in warehouses for a day before processing paperwork to be “imported” into China.
Read more from the NY Times.
EU Emission Standards to Divert Sea Cargo – The European Shippers Council claims that new emissions standards planned by the European Union (EU) will shift up to 30% of cargo that would normally travel by sea to move by road transportation. The group calls for the EU to postpone deadlines to allow time for new green technologies to be developed.
Read more from the JOC.
