This is your weekly supply chain bulletin from B2BE for the week starting 13th March 2023.
Each week, we bring you a rundown of the latest trends in the news from across the supply chain industry. We cover the issues most important to you, bringing you useful links to the full articles. This ranges from news on various supply chain disruptions to strategies to lessen the damage. We also include other relevant supply chain related updates. If you missed it, you can read last week’s supply chain bulletin here. Read on to see what’s making the news this week.
Japan and Australia collaborate on hydrogen supply chain
Japan and Australia have joined forces to create a new hydrogen supply chain. The deal aims to supply hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources to Japan. It will also involve the construction of a facility in Victoria, Australia, which will produce hydrogen from brown coal. This will then be liquefied and transported to Japan in special tankers. The hydrogen will be used for a variety of purposes, including power generation, transportation, and industry.
Global supply chain pressures drop below average for the first time in over 2 years
According to the latest data from the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index, global supply chain pressures have dropped below average for the first time since August 2019. This follows a period of unprecedented spikes. The index, which measures the degree of pressure on global supply chains, takes into account factors such as demand, production, and shipping costs. Despite the recent drop, supply chain pressures remain high in many sectors, including semiconductors, automotive, and shipping. The report suggests that the ongoing supply chain challenges are likely to persist in the short term due to ongoing pandemic-related disruptions and labour shortages.
UK manufacturing sector calls for “reset” in UK-EU relationship to address supply chain issues
The UK’s manufacturing sector is calling for a “reset” in the country’s relationship with the EU in order to address supply chain issues. Many manufacturers are struggling to obtain the raw materials and components they need due to a combination of factors, including post-Brexit border controls, pandemic-related disruptions, and a shortage of shipping containers. The sector is calling for more investment in domestic manufacturing, as well as efforts to improve relationships with EU suppliers and customers. The ongoing supply chain challenges are affecting a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics.
UK and Canada sign agreement to boost green tech supply chains
The UK and Canada have signed an agreement to boost the development of green technology supply chains. The deal, which was signed during a virtual meeting between the two countries’ trade ministers, will focus on promoting collaboration between businesses and researchers in both countries to accelerate the development of green technologies. The agreement aims to support the growth of clean energy industries, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create new jobs in the sector. It also includes provisions to encourage investment in the development of green technology infrastructure, such as charging stations for electric vehicles. The UK and Canada have both set ambitious targets to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The new agreement is therefore a key step towards achieving these goals.
About B2BE
B2BE delivers electronic supply chain solutions globally, helping organisations to better manage their supply chain processes, providing greater levels of visibility, auditability and control. We’re driven by a passion for what we do, inspired by innovation, and underpinned by a wealth of knowledge. With over 20+ years of experience, the B2BE teams operate worldwide.
For more information, visit www.b2be.com.