Recently in Logistics; Geopolitical tensions are adding new pressure to global trade, with G7 allies warning that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could impact energy supply and economic stability. At the same time, governments face growing calls to reduce internal trade barriers, while the U.S. expands scrutiny on forced-labour enforcement across 60 countries. On the demand side, consumer trust in AI is rising, with more Canadians open to automated purchasing and data sharing. Looking ahead, Gartner projects AI could autonomously manage up to 60% of supply chain disruptions by 2031, signalling a shift toward more adaptive, data-driven operations.
G7 Warn Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Disruptions
G7 allies, including Canada, condemned Iran over attacks on commercial vessels and warned that disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten global energy supply and economic stability. The group called for an immediate halt to attacks, respect for international law, and protection of freedom of navigation, while preparing measures to secure maritime traffic. They also signalled coordinated actions, including potential oil reserve releases and increased production, to stabilize markets and limit global impact.
Source: Inside Logistics
CFIB Urges Faster Action on Canada Internal Trade Barriers
The Canadian Federation of Independent Business is urging governments to turn recent progress on reducing internal trade barriers into clear, consistent reforms that benefit small businesses. Despite momentum from agreements like the CMRA, businesses still face challenges such as inconsistent regulations, duplicative requirements, and slow implementation across provinces. CFIB is calling for broader coverage, faster timelines, and fewer exceptions to unlock growth, improve mobility, and strengthen Canada’s domestic economy.
Source: Retail Insider
U.S. Probes 60 Countries Over Forced Labor Trade Practices
The U.S. has launched a Section 301 investigation into 60 countries, including Canada, the EU, China, and Mexico, over concerns they are not effectively enforcing bans on forced-labor imports. The probe aims to determine whether these gaps create unfair cost advantages in global trade. Alongside the investigation, the administration signalled potential new tariffs, including a proposed global surcharge that could rise to 15%.
Source: Supply Chain Dive
74% of Canadians Open to AI Completing Online Purchases
A new Omnisend study shows growing consumer trust in AI, with 74% of Canadians open to AI completing online purchases and nearly 80% willing to share data for better recommendations. While shoppers see AI as a way to simplify decision-making, most still want safeguards like final approval and remain concerned about data use, bias, and transparency. Personalized pricing stands out as a major red line, with many consumers rejecting AI-driven price differences despite increasing adoption of AI-assisted shopping.
Source: Retail Insider
AI to Manage 60% of Supply Chain Disruptions by 2031
Gartner predicts that by 2031, AI will autonomously handle up to 60% of supply chain disruptions as companies adopt real-time, data-driven decision systems. The shift is driven by growing complexity from trade uncertainty and geopolitical risks, pushing organizations toward faster, more consistent responses. While full automation will remain limited to lower-risk decisions for now, companies are advised to build strong data, governance, and hybrid decision models as AI adoption accelerates.
Source: Inside Logistics
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