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The wave of corporate layoffs continues to sweep across industries, with major players in manufacturing and logistics announcing significant workforce reductions. Following DHL's plan to cut 8,000 jobs by 2027, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has now revealed plans to eliminate 10,000 positions within the next 30 days through voluntary early retirement.

Why Is USPS Cutting Jobs?

• Financial Crisis: USPS reported a $9.5 billion net loss in fiscal 2024, with labor costs accounting for over 70% of total expenses¡ªfar exceeding those of private couriers.

• Cost-Saving Measures: The layoffs are part of a collaboration with the Government Efficiency Department (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, aiming to:

• Optimize logistics networks.

• Introduce automation.

• Improve retirement asset management.

• Save $3.5 billion annually.

Backlash and Potential Disruptions

• Worker Strikes: The USPS union has called for a nationwide strike on March 23, protesting privatization efforts and job security threats for its 640,000 employees.

• Supply Chain Impact:

• Extended delivery times.

• Higher return rates.

• Critical hubs like the Port of Los Angeles could face severe delays.

• Chinese e-commerce sellers (e.g., apparel, 3C accessories, home goods) relying on USPS budget shipping may experience:

  
  

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Global Layoff Trends

1. Germany¡¯s Industrial Giants:

• Siemens: Cutting 6,000+ jobs in automation and EV charging sectors.

• Audi: Reducing 7,500 positions in Germany by 2029.

• Volkswagen, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz: Planning tens of thousands of layoffs.

• Auto suppliers (Bosch, ZF, Continental) may cut 70,000 jobs collectively.

2. Logistics Sector:

• DHL: 8,000 layoffs to save €1 billion by 2027.

Key Takeaways

• For Businesses: Monitor USPS strike impacts, especially for cross-border e-commerce.

• For Workers: Unions are pushing back, but automation and cost pressures drive long-term job reductions.

• Market Shift: Companies balance restructuring with innovation (e.g., Audi delaying ICE phase-out).