The following is a message from Export.gov:

The new INCOTERMS® 2010 became effective January 1, 2011. Incoterms--which is an abbreviation for International Commercial terms--are a series of sales terms. They are published by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and are widely used in commercial transactions. In addition to providing a set of rules for the interpretation of commonly used trade terms, INCOTERMS® 2010 accomplish the following:

1. Significantly revises Group D listed in INCOTERMS® 2000;

2. Reduce Incoterms from four groups to two groups, allowing trade experts to choose the most suitable rule related to the mode of transport; and

3. Reduce the absolute number of Incoterms from 13 to 11.

What's the big deal with "global trade content?" Governments and agencies around the world are all publishing the same data, so does it matter where you get it from?

How the right technology can keep exporters out of harm’s way and in regulators’ good graces

The Journal of Commerce has a great article about how enhancing your export control program ultimately raises supply chain security, prevents delays, and increases control the export process, resulting in increased revenue from new markets.

Retailers at the 100th National Retail Federation (NRF) Big Show in New York City last week were met with a cold blast of winter air, an antithesis of the mood and conversations that took place during the 3-day event. The trade show floor (often a circus-like setting filled with passé costumes and shtick intended to entice the smartest in the industry – who are they kidding) and speaking sessions were a virtual hot bed of coals, as retailers are talking about technology solutions to keep the momentum of the upturn in the economy moving in the right direction.

As 2010 drew to a close this past week, the media recapped the year in stories that encompass every angle of our everyday lives.  Photos, quotes, disasters, events, birth and deaths.  Each of these recollections that compile the streams of information and floods of memories about the last 12 months in history are each remarkable; and most make us reflect back on the moment in time.  To me the quotes and words of people are most memorable and provide the strongest connection to my work role.