CBP Webinar on ACE New Tools & Features: WSSA attended CBP’s webinar on Wednesday, “How to Set Up and Manage an ACE Portal Account.” The session walked through the step-by-step account setup process and introduced a series of new automation features and web tools for the ACE Portal designed to make account management faster and more straightforward.

The frustration from participants was palpable in the chat as dozens of importers reported their struggles to reach ACE support via phone or email, with hold times in the hours on the phone and no responses to emails. The updates addressed some of these pain points, including account reactivation, identifying account owners, and applying for new accounts. CBP also published CSMS #68966469 which details the new web tools. Should you like a copy of the full webinar recap, please reach out to us.

USMCA Update: Attention remains focused on the upcoming USMCA review scheduled for July 1, 2026, when the United States, Mexico, and Canada will assess the agreement and determine whether to extend it for another 16 years. While trade experts generally expect the agreement to remain in place with targeted updates rather than a full renegotiation, discussions are likely to focus on automotive rules of origin, labor enforcement, digital trade, supply chain security, and the treatment of non-market inputs. Recent comments from the Trump administration have introduced some uncertainty regarding the future direction of the pact, although industry stakeholders across North America continue to advocate for maintaining the agreement given its critical role in supporting regional trade and manufacturing. For shippers and importers, the current expectation is continued USMCA benefits, but businesses should closely monitor developments as negotiations progress and the July 1 deadline for a “complete” renewal remains uncertain.  

EU–USA Trade Agreement: Earlier this week, European Parliament approved the EU-US trade agreement, a positive step for transcontinental trade. The recently approved agreement provides greater certainty for transatlantic trade by establishing a framework that avoids further tariff escalation and offers businesses improved planning visibility. While the U.S. will maintain tariffs on many EU exports, the agreement includes reciprocal market access measures and tariff reductions on selected goods. Although some concerns remain regarding the balance of concessions and sector-specific tariffs, the deal is expected to support a more stable trading environment for importers and exporters moving cargo between Europe and the United States.

Threat of 100% tariffs on French Wine and Champagne:  President Trump announced that he would impose 100% tariffs on French wine and champagne if France insists on the DST/Digital Services Tax on USA tech companies. The French government seems to be holding their ground on the DST tax, but we believe the Trump’s statement is more a threat than a reality. We will keep you posted if there are any further developments.   

Chile Pass Closure: As of June 18^th the pass connecting Chile and Argentina will be closed due to inclement weather in the mountains. Trucks are currently not permitted to transit the pass until further notice, so please plan on potential delays if you have cargo moving through the region.  

Transatlantic Service Disruptions: Ocean carrier operations within the Ocean/Premier Alliance network continue to face schedule volatility, with a number of blank sailings announced across U.S. trade lanes in the coming weeks. As a result, shippers may experience transit delays and increased cargo rollover risks, particularly on exports originating from Europe. At the same time, market demand remains robust, and carriers are reporting vessels sailing at or near capacity through mid-July. To help mitigate potential disruptions, customers are strongly encouraged to book shipments as early as possible and maintain flexibility where feasible.

WSSA continues to maintain strong contractual partnerships with all major ocean carriers and remains committed to supporting customers with booking strategies, capacity solutions, and any transportation-related questions or requirements.

LCL Services from France, Italy, and Spain/Portugal – SUMMER UPDATE! Bi-monthly departures continue from each of these countries for your small shipments, offering a per case rate from point of pick up to the Alba Wine and Spirits warehouse in Edison New Jersey. For the summer months, all containers will be temperature controlled insuring your cargo is protected from summer heat. Shipments from other European countries can be added into the mix, with pick-ups offered in most European countries. Please let us know if you need any further information!