Insights China has expanded its zero-tariff policy to cover 100 per cent of imports from least developed countries (LDCs) with diplomatic ties, effective from December 1, 2024. At a WTO meeting, China also pledged full tariff exemption for 53 African nations and offered support through trade facilitation and training. The move was welcomed by WTO members. China has expanded zero-tariff treatment to cover 100 per cent of imported products from least developed countries (LDCs) maintaining diplo

Insights China's cross-border e-commerce exports have surpassed 2 trillion yuan (~$278.59 billion) in 2024 for the first time, marking a major milestone, according to the General Administration of Customs (GAC). Exports grew 16.9 per cent year on year to reach 2.15 trillion yuan, with the US, UK, and Germany being the top export markets. Consumer goods dominated trade flows. China’s cross-border e-commerce exports have surpassed 2 trillion yuan in 2024—around $278.59 billion&mdas

Insights Fitch Ratings has downgraded its 2025 outlook for North America and EMEA ports to 'deteriorating' amid trade wars and tariffs. APAC and Latin America remain 'neutral' due to trade diversification and structural strengths. Credit risks rise in North America and EMEA, while APAC and Latin America show resilience through broader trade ties and contracts. Fitch Ratings has revised its mid-2025 outlook for the port sectors in North America and Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) re

Key Takeaways Ethical sourcing is becoming a global norm in the textile industry, driven by regulations, consumer demand, and sustainability goals. Updated OEKO-TEX standards and EU laws like CSDDD and LkSG promote transparency and due diligence. Brands prioritising ethics gain customer trust, reduce risks, and ensure long-term growth. Consumers now actively seek certified, responsibly made products. The UK-headquartered Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) defines &lsqu

Insights Fitch Ratings has changed its 2025 outlook for the global shipping sector to 'deteriorating' from 'neutral' due to weaker demand expectations, mainly in container shipping and dry bulk. Tanker shipping is likely to be more stable. Container shipping profits may drop this year from 2024 levels. Fitch expects container freight rates to continue declining from the highs achieved in mid-2024. Fitch Ratings has changed its 2025 outlook for the global shipping sector to ‘deterioratin

Insights The GEP global supply chain volatility index fell to minus 0.46 in May from minus 0.39 in April, indicating rising spare capacity across supply chains. Global supply chain activity was driven lower by a deterioration across Asia, which reported the greatest degree of spare capacity in 18 months. North American supply chains remain underutilised due to considerable weakness in Mexico and Canada. The GEP global supply chain volatility index fell to minus 0.46 in May from minus 0.39 in

Insights Global growth is forecast to slow to 2.3 per cent in 2025, its weakest pace since 2008 outside recessions, amid trade tensions and policy uncertainty. Nearly 70 per cent of economies face downgraded forecasts. Developing economies are hit hardest, with slowing trade, rising debt, and limited fiscal space. The World Bank urges reforms, trade diversification, and cooperation to restore momentum. Global growth is now projected to slow to 2.3 per cent in 2025, nearly half a percentage po

Insights US and Chinese officials yesterday agreed in London to again try to implement the trade war truce that collapsed amid allegations from both sides weeks after it was reached in Geneva. US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick announced a 'handshake' deal to put into effect the terms of the May 12 US-China agreement. The London deal will be put into effect once it gets presidential nod on both sides. US and Chinese officials yesterday agreed in London to again try to implement the trade wa

Key Takeaways Hybrid protective fabrics blending HPPE, steel, glass, basalt, and tungsten are revolutionising PPE by offering multi-hazard resistance without compromising comfort. These engineered blends enhance durability, mobility, and thermal protection. Recycling challenges remain, making circular design essential for future sustainability in protective textiles. As workplace risks evolve, with potential injuries from sharp metal edges and abrasive surfaces to thermal hazards, traditio

Insights China's total goods trade rose by 2.5 per cent year-on-year to 17.94 trillion yuan (~$2.5 trillion) in the first five months of 2025, with export growth of 7.2 per cent offsetting a 3.8 per cent decline in imports, according to customs data. In May alone, trade increased by 2.7 per cent, as exports increased 6.3 per cent and imports dropped 2.1 per cent. China’s total goods trade reached 17.94 trillion yuan (~$2.5 trillion) during January–May 2025, marking a 2.5 per cent