Logistic services and advanced metal processing-technology in the automotive industry are among the topics examined in the current issue of Industry Trade and Technology Review (ITTR), a publication of the U.S. International Trade Commission's Office of Industries.

Industry Trade and Technology Review contains articles originating from research and analysis conducted by U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) staff as part of its responsibilities to provide advice and technical information on industry and trade issues. The ITTR provides analysis of important issues and insights into the global position of U.S. industries, the technological competitiveness of the United States, and implications of trade and policy developments.

The ITTR is a publication of the Office of Industries. The opinions and conclusions it contains are those of the authors and are not the views of the Commission or of any individual Commissioner.

The current issue (June/July 2004) includes the following articles:

• Logistic Services: Industry Overview and Issues for Negotiation -- Logistic services involve planning and managing the transport of goods throughout the delivery process. Demand for such services by manufacturers is largely driven by the need to more efficiently manage the flow of goods across increasingly complex supply chains and by "just-in- time" production that enables waste elimination and reduced inventory costs. Advances in information technologies and increased trade liberalization can also facilitate logistic services by more efficiently transmitting documents and by lowering barrier costs such as tariffs. Trade agreements may reduce or eliminate lingering impediments, especially in the transportation sector, where regulations may hinder market access and require use of domestic suppliers, thereby leading to more costly and less reliable service. This article surveys the major industry players and factors driving demand for logistic services, examines impediments to international provision of logistic services, and discusses the potential for reducing impediments through trade agreements.

• Powder Metallurgy and Advanced Aluminum Sheet Forming: Applications of Advanced Technology in the Automotive Industry -- Market competition and government regulation have compelled U.S. automakers to improve vehicle fuel-efficiency, safety, and affordability. Advanced material technology influences how effectively automakers can adopt new materials and advances in conventional fabrication methods. Material substitution is key to reducing vehicle weight, both to lower vehicle costs and meet fuel economy guidelines. However, developing cost-effective applications is often difficult in this cost-sensitive industry. Barriers include research and development costs and establishing a supply infrastructure. Powder metallurgy and advanced aluminum sheet processing are materials technologies currently in different stages of commercialization. To assess their potential in automotive applications, this article examines technical and economic advantages and disadvantages; supply infrastructures; current uses in the North American, European, and Japanese automotive industries; and joint industry/government efforts to advance these materials technologies.

In addition, the publication includes an appendix charting key performance indicators for the steel, automobile, aluminum, flat glass, and services industries, as well as for North American trade.

Industry Trade and Technology Review (USITC Publication 3716, June/July 2004) will be posted on the ITC's Internet site at www.usitc.gov. A cumulative list of articles published in the report series is also posted. The ITTR will also be available at regional federal depository libraries in the United States. To request a printed copy of the ITTR or to be added to the mailing list, contact the Office of the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission, 500 E Street SW, Washington, DC 20436. Requests may also be faxed to 202-205-2104.