At Impress Communications the Highcon Laser Die-Cutter Opens Up a World of Possibilities The Highcon Laser Die-Cutter is a marvel of technology and engineering that represents a complete shift and new era for the design industry. This machine gives designers the power to envision and create artwork in ways that were previously impossible. The precision and flexibility of cutting with lasers, as opposed to the traditional method of using bent lengths of steel rule, removes the previous limitations associated with regular die-cutting. Now, a designer can strip away intricate sections of paper, leaving dramatic reveals of the substrate or product beneath. These kinds of paper layering techniques create a compelling impression with a brand’s end user, and allow creatives to reimagine what can be done with belly bands and sleeves, folding cards or french fold panels, and any kind of package that features a window.

Futures in New York slipped as much as 2.1 percent to the lowest intraday price since March 20. China’s Ministry of Commerce said it would levy 25 percent tariffs on imports of 106 U.S. products including automobiles and aircraft. That wiped out earlier support for prices as Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries output dropped to the lowest in a year in March. “It’s only logical to see profit-taking in light of looming trade tensions and possible financial market turbulence,” said Eugen Weinberg, head of commodities research at Commerzbank AG in Frankfurt. Global equities sank after China unveiled its charges, which match the scale of proposed U.S. tariffs announced earlier this week and ratchets up tension in a brewing trade war between the world’s two largest economies. With products ranging from gas turbines to steel and aluminum affected, the spat threatens to raise costs, slow economic growth and hit oil demand. Click Read More below for additional information.

Labor talks at U.S. ports on the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico are a looming risk for retailers, manufacturers and other shippers already grappling with longer transit times and higher costs. The International Longshoremen's Association contract covering 45,000 dockworkers at three dozen ports stretching from Maine to Texas expires on Sept. 30. If there is no deal by then, the union could call a strike that would hit during the vital holiday container shipping season and labor-friendly U.S. President Joe Biden's bid for reelection. The ILA on Monday called off this week's planned start of talks with the U.S. Maritime Alliance, citing one member of that employer group's use of automation technology in violation of prior agreements.