Radiant's Freight Market Update

This week: Steelmakers in Canada and Mexico have halted new orders from the U.S.; Canadian PM candidate is calling for an international summit in response to the proposed U.S. tariffs; The Port of Los Angeles saw its second-busiest year in its 117-year history.

Current Critical Industry Trends

Steelmakers in Canada and Mexico have halted new orders from the U.S. due to concerns over potential new and costly tariffs. Imported steel accounts for about 27% of total steel demand in the U.S., with Canada and Mexico being the top and third-largest suppliers, respectively.

Canadian PM candidate is calling for an international summit in response to the proposed U.S. tariffs. The coalition would collaborate to address the challenges and develop a strong retaliatory plan.

Ocean

Taiwan has blacklisted 52 Chinese-owned ships, which operate under flags of convenience. Taipei plans to target vessels flagged by countries with lenient safety and regulatory standards.

Ports

The Port of Los Angeles saw its second-busiest year in its 117-year history, handling over 10 million container units—almost a 20% increase from the previous year. Additionally, the port has reduced its emissions to the lowest level seen in nearly 20 years. This milestone marks a significant achievement in both operational growth and environmental impact.

International

Plan Mexico was launched with a 30 billion peso incentive package. The majority of the funds will be allocated to support new fixed assets in the country, while the remainder will be directed toward training and innovation incentives.

Trucking

The Canadian Trucking Alliance is encouraged to see government officials expediting the review of internal trade issues. The discussion aims to identify and eliminate internal trade barriers, helping to improve competitiveness and productivity in the Canadian supply chain.

Rail

Funding resumes for key transportation and supply chain projects. A short-lived funding freeze put rail, highway, and port upgrades at risk, but the pause has now been lifted. Industry leaders emphasize the need for predictability in grant programs to ensure long-term infrastructure progress.

Strike averted as CN and IBEW reach tentative deal. After working without a contract since December 2024, CN and the IBEW have come to terms on a four-year agreement. The agreement ensures continuity for operations that support a significant portion of CN’s U.S. trade revenue.

Air

Hong Kong Airfreight Market Booms as Cathay Cargo Expands Capacity. Capacity out of Hong Kong increased by 12%, keeping pace with a 17% market-wide rise. Despite global trade uncertainties, demand for special cargo solutions and high-value shipments is growing, while digital bookings now account for 70% of Cathay’s transactions.

Technology

Charging on the move Quebec’s bold step toward EV fleet innovation. A Swedish company is testing a breakthrough in fleet electrification — offering reduced operating costs, smaller batteries, and enhanced charging efficiency.

Other

Port of Los Angeles unveils stunning drone tour of cargo operations. The port has released drone footage, offering a rare first-person view of its bustling cargo terminals and waterfront attractions. The immersive aerial tour highlights the scale of operations and ongoing investments driving efficiency at one of the busiest ports in North America.

Aircraft weighing enters a new era with wireless telemetry. Gone are the days of complex wired weighing systems. Wireless telemetry is delivering increased flexibility, reduced calibration time, and improved real-time data monitoring, ensuring aircraft are optimally balanced for performance and safety.

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The Radiant Network's supply chain and logistics updates provide valuable insights on freight trends, customs regulations, global news, economics, tech, and more. The Radiant Network includes the brands Radiant World Trade Services, Radiant Global Logistics, Radiant Canada, Radiant Road & Rail, Adcom, Airgroup, SBA, and Distribution By Air.

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Radiant World Trade Services is a part of Radiant Logistics, Inc. (NYSE American: RLGT), a publicly traded third-party logistics company that provides technology-enabled global transportation and value-added logistics solutions to a diverse account base. They offer comprehensive services including freight forwarding, truck and rail brokerage, warehouse and distribution, customs brokerage, order fulfillment, inventory management, and technology services. Radiant has an extensive network of offices throughout North America and other key markets worldwide.