USTR Targets China, DHL Halts Some Shipments, New Trolleybuses

This week in logistics and mobility, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) takes bold steps to curb China’s grip on global shipping, while DHL pauses high-value consumer shipments into the United States. Meanwhile, Mexico City electrifies its transit infrastructure with new trolleybuses. 

In other news, CMA CGM sharpens its Asia-Latin America routes for speed and freshness, while Bison Transport partners up to streamline growth across North America.

Ready for more? Here is your Week in Logistics!

USTR Unveils Measures to Counter China in Shipping Sector

On April 18, 2025, the USTR announced new trade measures to counter China’s dominance in shipping and shipbuilding. The plan includes phased fees on Chinese vessels and incentives for US-built ships, aiming to boost domestic industry and allegedly address unfair trade practices.

DHL Halts High-Value B2C Shipments to the United States

DHL has temporarily suspended B2C shipments to US consumers valued over US$800 due to new customs regulations lowering the formal entry threshold. The move aims to ease processing delays and will remain in effect until further notice. B2B and lower-value shipments are not affected.

Mexico City Launches 14 New Trolleybus Units on Line 12

Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada has delivered 14 new electric trolleybuses for Line 12, which will benefit over 30,000 daily users. With a MX$130 million investment, the initiative aims to modernize public transport, cut emissions, and improve travel times. The move is part of a broader plan to electrify the city’s transit system.

CMA CGM Unveils Asia-Mexico-WCSA Service Enhancements

CMA CGM has announced major service upgrades to strengthen its Asia-Mexico-South America routes. Key changes include faster transit times, a new direct call to Chile, enhanced connectivity via transshipment hubs, and a new M2A loop linking China to Ensenada and the Andes. These updates aim to boost transportation efficiency, especially for perishables, and expand the company’s presence in Latin America.

Bison Transport Partners With Mastery to Drive Growth, Efficiency

Bison Transport has partnered with Mastery Logistics Systems to implement MasterMind, a cloud-based transportation management platform. This move supports Bison’s North American expansion by unifying operations, enhancing efficiency, and enabling smarter decision-making through a scalable and highly configurable system.

SICT Boosts Road Safety with Medical Checks for Truck Drivers

The SICT launched “Operativo 30 Delta” from April 11–27 to enhance road safety during the Easter travel season. With 29 mobile checkpoints across Mexico, federal passenger transport drivers undergo medical exams to detect fatigue, drug, or alcohol use, among other issues. Supported by the National Guard, the initiative also includes vehicle inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.

Mexico City Metro Launches Tenders to Boost Structural Monitoring

The Mexico City Metro has issued three public tenders to improve structural and seismic monitoring, with a focus on Line 12 and parts of Lines 4, 9, and B. The projects involve installing advanced monitoring systems and seismographs to assess structural integrity and enhance earthquake detection. Work is set to begin May 22 and conclude by Dec. 31, 2025.