Trump’s new tariffs could shake the UK and EU automotive sector
New US tariffs on steel, aluminium, and auto parts threaten production costs, trade relationships and market stability, and for UK and EU carmakers, the implications of these policies could be severe, impacting everything from manufacturing costs to supply chain efficiency and trade competitivene...
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Seven supply chain shocks in seven weeks
Just seven weeks into 2025, global supply chains have already faced a whirlwind of challenges.
From industrial action to trade barriers and shifting alliances, businesses must stay agile to navigate ongoing disruptions. Here are seven of the most impactful developments so far this year.
1. ...
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Road freight resilience amid industry turbulence
Despite rising costs, political uncertainties, and sluggish economic growth presenting formidable obstacles for road freight operators, Metro remains a standout performer, driving forward with an optimistic outlook, bolstered by sustained expansion and strategic investments.
The UK’s haulage...
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Safety and security declarations for EU imports
From 31st January, businesses importing goods from the European Union (EU) to Great Britain (GB) must comply with new UK safety and security declaration requirements.
While some businesses are already prepared - voluntarily submitting around three million declarations annually - many others ne...
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The risks of President Trump’s trade policies
President Donald Trump’s inauguration speech and subsequent executive orders have provided further insights into his proposed trade policies.
His emphasis on protectionism, territorial expansion, and the establishment of an “External Revenue Service” marks a significant shift in the ap...
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Container shipping braces for volatility as Red Sea routes beckon
For over a year attacks on merchant vessels by Houthi militants has forced container carriers to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope. However, a newly established ceasefire and assurances from Houthi forces to limit attacks on non-Israeli vessels signal the possibility of a return to the Suez Ca...
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Asia–Europe airfreight: Growth and vulnerabilities
Despite growth and robust demand airfreight faces significant challenges, including reliance on eCommerce, capacity pressures, and geopolitical disruptions.
Airfreight demand on the Asia–Europe route saw a strong performance in 2024, bolstered by eCommerce, automotive parts, pharmaceuticals,...
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ICS2 Phase 2: What you need to know and how we can help
On 4th December 2024, Phase 2 of the Import Control System 2 (ICS2) was deployed, requiring maritime and inland waterways house-level filers, including Metro, to directly submit detailed safety and security data to EU customs authorities.
ICS2 is the EU’s advanced customs system designed to ...
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November 2024; Customs and compliance update
Our customs consultancy team provide insights on the latest changes, making it easier for you to stay on top of your planning and development needs.
To help us better support your compliance and efficiency goals, including duty/tax reclaims, we encourage you to click the button below to comple...
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Enhanced groupage services to France and Germany
In our continued efforts to provide exceptional trans-European logistics solutions, we have recently upgraded our groupage services to France and Germany, offering greater speed and efficiency, alongside competitive rates and our top-tier customer care.
Our French groupage services continue to...
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Ongoing labour disputes threaten global supply chains
While recent developments in India and Canada suggest some relief from labour disputes, the threat of strikes continues to loom over port operations and global supply chains. The situation remains precarious, especially with the added complications from Red Sea diversions, which could magnify the...
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Import Control System 2
Enhancing supply chain security and safety, Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is the Import Control system for movements both ways between the UK and the EU, including Norway, Switzerland, and Northern Ireland.
Based on similar worldwide systems that pre-declare shipments, to determine risk, secu...
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