India seeks USD 3.4 bn rail expansion, buffer against China: India has earmarked USD 3.4 bn to fortify its northeastern railway infrastructure and bolster logistical access and military readiness should diplomatic ties with China waver, Bloomberg reported on Friday, citing unnamed sources. The approved plan — expected to be completed within four years — reportedly includes 500 km of railway lines, comprising bridges and tunnels, to link up remote areas near the borders of China, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Bhutan.

India and China drama: Following a border dispute and a subsequent 2020 military skirmish, relations between New Delhi and Beijing have been distant. However, the two nations agreed to relaunch direct flights after a five-year hiatus and trade ties, amid trade tensions with the US.

Is CMA CGM adapting to USTR fees? French Logistics giant CMA CGM has decided not to implement a surcharge on its maritime transport services to cover US Trade Representative (USTR) fees on China-built vessels calling at US ports, according to a statement published last week. The firm is implementing a contingency plan that includes fleet and operational alterations to minimize exposure for its China-built ships in a bid to skirt the fees. The adjustments will be made before 14 October — the fees’ expected roll-out date.

ICYMI- The Trump administration proposed tariffs and docking fees on China-built and China-flagged vessels, which could lead to a USD 1-3 mn surcharge per call.

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