Supply Chain Research

Australia’s exports jumped 30% on a year earlier in February, resulting in a trade surplus of A$3.6 billion ($2.7 billion). That was nearly double the level expected by economists. Shipments to China climbed 56%, likely the result of high iron ore and coal sales. The non-commodity picture is not as bright – U.S. exports fell 7% on a 25% slide in wine shipments. The outlook may be more challenging. Coal shipments to China may be disrupted for a month by the aftermath of Cyclone Debbie. While Chinese managers still expect imports to expand, the degree of optimism has declined recently.