The container-lines had a challenging first quarter, typified by Maersk, and were outpaced by the freight forwarders – cost cutting is needed. COSCO’s purchase of Orient Express may require post-deal route rationalization. Venezuela’s trade data shows the severity of its food shortages. Also: there are three options for the future of NAFTA talks; the EU parliament readies its metals retaliation; China rescinds its sorghum review; Thailand’s GSP eligibility in the U.S. may be revoked; a trilateral meeting this weekend may start to resolve the EU and Japanese concerns with America...