A Port Manatee trade executive has returned from ceremonies marking the expansion of the Panama Canal, saying he is optimistic that the expansion will reap big benefits for the port.

Hapag-Lloyd AG approved a plan to acquire all shares of United Arab Shipping Co., paving the way for the second merger in two years to bolster the position of Germany’s biggest container-shipping line in an industry plagued by excess capacity.

U.S. trailer orders fell 12% in May, reflecting typical seasonal demand, ACT Research Co. reported — though trailer manufacturers said the market had softened.

A.P. Moeller-Maersk A/S replaced its CEO as the owner of the world’s biggest shipping company explores a number of “strategic options” that may include splitting up its operations.

CHICAGO — The managing partner of Great Lakes Basin Transportation was in familiar surroundings June 15 as he promoted his idea to build a freight railroad from the LaPorte area to southeast Wisconsin, circling Chicago to serve as a bypass around that congested city.

U.S. net trailer orders in May reached 14,250 units, the lowest total this year, ACT Research Co. reported, calling it an expected seasonal slowdown.

When the Panama Canal reopens its wider, deeper locks and channel on June 26, Port Manatee officials will be looking to turn that greater capacity into more cargo traffic.