Why Did the Baltimore Bridge Collapse and What Do We Know About the Ship?
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has shaken both the world of foreign trade and maritime transport. The incident occurred when a container ship collided with a pillar of the bridge, triggering the collapse of much of its structure over the Patapsco River.
While no injuries were reported among the crew of the vessel, unfortunately, eight workers repairing the bridge fell into the water, and six are still missing. Authorities have highlighted the swift response that helped avert a larger tragedy.
The bridge, a vital route for traffic in the port of Baltimore, has been closed, raising concerns about the impact on foreign trade. With container flow likely to be redirected to larger ports like New York and New Jersey, significant disruptions in the transportation of goods, including automobiles, coal, and sugar, are expected.
Baltimore, which is a key hub for coal and automobile exports, as well as for handling agricultural products and machinery, faces a considerable logistical challenge.
To read the full article: https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/internacionales/Por-que-se-derrumbo-el-puente-de-Baltimore-y-que-sabemos-del-barco-20240326-0060.html
Sustainable Mobility: The Present of Cargo Transport
In a world where efficiency and sustainability are increasingly prioritized, the cargo transport sector is undergoing a transformation towards adopting more efficient and eco-friendly vehicles. The pursuit of profitability is combined with the need to reduce environmental impact and increase road safety.
Currently, there is a wide range of motorization options, from diesel to electric and even hydrogen vehicles. However, finding the balance between technology that reduces operating costs and the initial vehicle price is crucial for transportation companies.
Miguel Elizalde, a specialist in sustainable mobility, highlights the importance of improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions for developing countries like Mexico. He also emphasizes the need to prioritize road safety as an integral part of fleet modernization.
Although there is still no national regulation mandating the transition to zero-emission vehicles, in the border region of Baja California with California, this reality is already a necessity due to regulations set by the neighboring state.
For Mexican companies operating on both sides of the border, this challenge represents an opportunity to maintain profitability and competitiveness. It is crucial for the federal government to implement measures and policies that promote the transition to a more sustainable mobility, involving both the private sector and authorities.
In summary, sustainable mobility in cargo transport is not only an environmental necessity but also an opportunity to improve profitability and road safety in the sector. It is time for all stakeholders to come together to make this transition a reality.
To read the full article: https://t21.com.mx/movilidad-sostenible-el-presente-del-transporte-de-carga/
Mexico will increase tariff coverage on Asian products
Mexico has announced plans to significantly increase tariff coverage on a variety of imported products from Asian countries, including China. The Mexican government will raise the number of tariff items subject to a 25% tariff from 392 to 540. This move is being implemented as part of a strategy to protect domestic industry, especially in sensitive sectors such as steel, aluminum, textiles, garments, and plastics.
Secretary of Economy, Raquel Buenrostro, has emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity and transparency in international trade, stressing the need for certificates of origin to ensure traceability of Mexican products. This measure aims to combat unfair competition and reaffirm Mexico’s commitment to complying with international trade agreements, such as the USMCA.
Furthermore, it has been noted that during 2023, nearly half of the United States’ steel exports went to Mexico, resulting in a historic trade deficit for the latter. Despite this, it is highlighted that the Mexican government remains committed to negotiations to avoid trade conflicts and strengthen cooperation with the steel sector to promote a more robust industrial policy focused on domestic products and raw materials.
To read the full article: https://www.eleconomista.com.mx/empresas/Mexico-ampliara-aranceles-a-productos-de-China-que-incurran-en-competencia-desleal-Raquel-Buenrostro-20240321-0117.html