All News

Current Critical Industry Trends

NYC’s first-in-the-nation congestion toll hits roadblock from Washington D.C. The federal DOT threatens to freeze Manhattan project authorizations over toll policy. MTA data shows 5.8 million fewer cars in the tolled zone since January. $100 million has already been collected, backing a $15 billion transit funding plan. The pricing scheme covers 60th Street to downtown and charges peak-hour drivers $9.

U.S. mulls cutting China supply chain links amid economic and political friction. New York debate highlights sharp divide over security, trade reliance and inflation impacts. Tariffs on Chinese imports have soared to 145% as supply chain rethinking accelerates. China has expanded its export partners while maintaining dominance in strategic materials.
 

Ocean

Trade war forces record-breaking wave of blank sailings. More than 80 sailings were canceled in April 2025, topping early pandemic levels. Asia to U.S. West Coast demand is down 28% while East Coast volumes may drop 42%.

New vessel fees spark cost concerns across supply chain. Charges up to $120 per container will take effect October 14. Industry groups warn the move could raise shipping costs and consumer prices.
 

Ports

Hamburg sets the pace for sustainable shipping infrastructure. By year-end, all terminals for large box ships will offer shore-side electricity. The CMA CGM Vasco de Gama was first to connect in May 2024.

International

Maritime industry takes first regulated step toward net zero. IMO adopts a global carbon pricing system after 10 years of debate. Emissions must drop 20–30% by 2030 or carriers will face tiered penalties.

Global trade data sheds light on the dynamics behind President Donald Trump’s tariffs. Analysis by Supply Chain Dive shows that just a few countries dominate U.S. trade. In 2024, the European Union, Mexico, Canada, and China accounted for nearly 60% of total trade.
 

Trucking

Autonomous trucks hit the pavement in Canada, with self-driving haulers now on the road in Ontario and Texas. The technology offers potential solutions to labor shortages and efficiency challenges in the freight industry, with proponents highlighting fuel savings and improved safety. However, questions about safety, regulations, and the ability to handle harsh Canadian weather conditions continue to pose challenges for the industry’s growth.
 

Rail

Indiana officials marked the grand opening of the Mount Vernon Railroad, creating a new “Mega-Modal” gateway for economic growth in Southwest Indiana. The project is a partnership between OmniTRAX and Ports of Indiana–Mount Vernon, combining port, rail, and barge access to support heavy industry and multimodal development. Local students joined the celebration, unveiling two locomotives they helped name: Power Paws and Wildcat Express.
 

Air

The end of a key U.S. customs exemption could lead to $22 billion in losses for the air cargo industry. For years, low-cost imports have been exempt from U.S. customs fees, allowing many online sellers—especially small cross-border retailers—to stay competitive. With that exemption set to expire, numerous sellers now face the threat of going out of business, and the air cargo sector is bracing for major disruption.

Saudia Cargo and China Cargo Airlines have signed an MoU to strengthen trade between Saudi Arabia and China. The deal outlines plans for interline cooperation, joint marketing, and harmonized cargo operations. Both carriers aim to expand logistics capabilities and support growing demand along a key trade corridor, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
 

Technology

The first all-electric long-haul sleeper truck has officially launched in the U.S. With a range of 420 miles, the new EV truck is ready for commercial deployment. The technology has been fully validated, and manufacturer Windrose says it’s excited to introduce the vehicle to the U.S. market.
 

Other

“Road Diets” have been shown to reduce crashes, but they’re now facing pushback from the Trump Administration. The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced that road safety grant criteria will now look less favorably on projects that involve lane reductions. These “road diet” initiatives—where traffic lanes are reduced to improve safety—have long demonstrated lower crash rates. Despite their proven effectiveness, road diets remain controversial and have faced political resistance before.

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As always, DBA’s team is here to help. Our expert teams are ready to answer any questions you may have or give advice for managing the current logistics environment. Additionally, if you need help moving freight or gaining visibility and control over your supply chain, we’d happily discuss what Radiant can do for you. Contact us!