Oil exporters are increasingly relying on mid-sea vessel transfers to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, compensating for a multi-month drop in direct shipping routes due to geopolitical tensions.

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered the reconstruction of the Benin Bypass and other roads. Additionally, he mandated a coordinated rescue effort for worshippers abducted in Niger.

Emphasizes the importance of secure maritime logistics and supply chain resilience for import transactions across East Africa.

Editorial writers argue against blaming maritime shipping regulations for California's expensive electricity, pointing to other structural factors driving utility rates.

Discounts of up to 50% are provided on ferry tickets for newly appointed teachers, as part of a joint initiative by the Ministries of Education and Shipping. Newly appointed...

Iran-backed Houthi forces continue regional attacks to pressure Saudi Arabia, raising fears of renewed large-scale conflict in Yemen and further maritime disruptions.

A business owner relocated from South Africa successfully converted a traditional Wexford chipper into a modern wellness space, marking a unique cross-cultural entrepreneurial venture.

Uzbekistan shipped over 800 tonnes of agricultural products to Belgium in the first half of 2026, capitalizing on expanded EU trade benefits under the GSP+ framework.

A coordinated cyber intrusion disrupted critical systems in Norway, leading to severe logistical failures that temporarily confined business leaders inside a shipping container and exposed systemic digital vulnerabilities.

Moscow is evaluating a suspension of floating export taxes on wheat, barley, and corn through late 2026 as Ukrainian attacks continue to hamper agricultural logistics in the region.

Logistics and shipping firm Grindrod announced a higher dividend following strong performance and increased throughput at Mozambique's Port of Maputo.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has reported that 20 people have died in 68 incidents near the Strait of Hormuz over a six-month period. These incidents highlight ongoing maritime security concerns in the vital shipping lane.

Attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz have resulted in 20 fatalities over six months of conflict, highlighting the ongoing dangers in the critical maritime chokepoint.

Maritime tracking data indicates that commercial vessel traffic through the critical waterway continues uninterrupted, defying expectations of disruption amid ongoing geopolitical standoffs.

New sanctions hit Iran's aviation, tech, and shipping sectors, amplifying pressure on global markets and energy prices.

Persistent drought has led to critically low water levels on the Rhine River, endangering industrial operations along its banks and impacting shipping and businesses.

Arctic freight traffic is reaching new records as Russia and China intensify their cooperation on the Northeast Passage, raising environmental and geopolitical concerns.

Sixty-five Red and White Fishing Villages in Indonesia have successfully shipped 273.6 tons of fishery products during an operational trial. These products are valued at approximately Rp11.10 billion (around US$620,000), showcasing the economic potential of these communities.

The chief executive of energy giant Total has highlighted the significant financial burden imposed on maritime shipping companies attempting to navigate the strategically vital Hormuz Strait.

Hengli has secured the top position globally in new containership orders, marking a significant achievement in the shipping industry.

DNV and the World Maritime University collaborated to host a masterclass focusing on the critical role of the human factor in the shipping industry, amidst challenges like energy transition and digital transformation.

Ethixbase360 and MendisOne have announced a partnership aimed at advancing Tcertification™ standards across the shipping, logistics, and tourism sectors.

South Korea is initiating its first pilot operation of a container ship through the Northeast Passage, aiming to develop new Arctic shipping routes and assess their commercial viability.

The shipping sector on the Oslo Stock Exchange is entering a new reporting period following an unusually long six-year period of market upturn.

President Surangel Whipps Jr. has authorized law enforcement officers from other Pacific jurisdictions to serve as police officers in Palau. This measure is in preparation for heightened security demands during the 55th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.

Ferries on the Rhine River have resumed operations despite continued low water levels, though inland shipping vessels still face difficulties. The return of ferry services offers some relief for transportation along the river.

The Panama Canal is experiencing severe drought conditions, impacting shipping and raising concerns about another maritime chokepoint affecting global trade.

The Panama Canal will reduce the number of ships passing through it starting next month, a measure necessitated by a drought exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon.

The global shipping industry is facing a severe crisis, characterized by the impacts of war, widespread drought, and dramatic rate hikes of up to 120%.

Gunmen have abducted more than 60 worshippers from a mosque in Nigeria, according to police reports.

Nearly 4,000 Cambodian civilians, including over 1,100 children, remain unable to return to their homes in Banteay Meanchey province, as Cambodian authorities accuse the Thai military of illegally placing shipping container barriers.

The Panama Canal will decrease daily transits from 40 to 32 vessels by September 15, a measure taken in anticipation of an 'extreme' El Niño, which risks slower shipping and higher costs.

South Korea has sent its inaugural container ship through the Arctic shipping route, marking a new development in global trade logistics.

A drought at the Panama Canal is causing significant disruptions, with implications for global shipping and consumer wallets.

The 27-inch ASRock Phantom 240Hz QD-OLED Gaming Monitor is now available for $279 with free shipping at Newegg, marking the new lowest price for this type of display.

The Wall Street Journal reports a significant increase in the threat posed by Houthi rebels to international shipping routes in the Red Sea.

Shipping traffic remains limited in the critical Straits of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb, with only seven vessel transits recorded yesterday, according to the latest available data.

Tens of thousands of people in Kenya have been displaced to higher ground due to rising lake levels, which are also pushing crocodiles and hippos closer to human settlements.

Cyprus, Greece, and Malta are expanding their maritime partnership, with Italy joining the format for the first time at a meeting scheduled for September 9 in Limassol.

Actress Anne Hathaway reportedly uses an affordable nail polish, priced at around €15, to achieve her natural and shiny manicure that lasts for weeks without chipping.

A report on global shipping in 2026 forecasts a period of falling demand, elevated shipping rates, and increasing risks at critical chokepoints. The industry faces challenges related to market dynamics and geopolitical factors.

China's postal and express delivery industry is enhancing its responsiveness to meet the diversified shipping and delivery demands of the modern distribution system.

Data indicates that the number of ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz has decreased significantly, now hovering in single digits.

According to media reports, Iran is exploring the possibility of attacking US military targets in Europe, with a focus on Southeastern Europe. Athens has reacted with increased vigilance, particularly regarding the sensitive situation in Cyprus, while shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz continues to decline.

Limassol, Cyprus, will host a 'Trilateral+1 Meeting' of maritime ministers from Cyprus, Greece, Malta, and Italy on September 9, 2026, as announced by the Cyprus Shipping Deputy Ministry.

Tensions between the US and Iran continue to escalate, impacting the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping traffic through the vital waterway has fallen sharply due to heightened security risks and stalled peace talks, raising concerns about oil prices and regional stability.

A 1TB PCIe M.2 SSD, considered an essential upgrade for the PlayStation 5, is currently available for $136.39 with free shipping.

The Panama Canal is set to reduce shipping operations as a result of a drought exacerbated by El Niño, impacting global trade.

A liner CEO reports that China's economic growth is currently straining global auto shipping capacity, indicating significant pressure on logistics and supply chains.

Maersk's stock has seen a significant increase, reaching its highest point in four years, driven by recent developments in the container shipping industry that have changed investor sentiment.

Supertanker prices have reached record highs as oil producers in the Middle East increase their demand for shipping, impacting global oil transport costs.

The container shipping market is facing a new round of surcharges due to limited capacity, congestion in Chinese ports caused by bad weather, and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

An analysis suggests that the resilience of global trade is significantly influenced by Greek shipping, highlighting its crucial role in international commerce.

China has opened what it refers to as the 'Ice Silk Road,' positioning it as the future Suez Canal for global trade. This new route through the Arctic aims to provide a faster and more efficient shipping corridor.

Chinese refiners have significantly increased their acquisition of Iraqi crude oil, demonstrating the resilience of oil exports from the Persian Gulf despite ongoing threats to shipping in the region.

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services announced its second-quarter revenue reached $1.78 billion, driven by an 8% increase in freight rates.

United Nations officials cautioned that disruptions at the Hormuz, Red Sea, and Black Sea straits are severely threatening global food supplies, pushing vulnerable regions toward widespread starvation.

South Korea-based SK Gas Ltd paid a record US$5.3 million to secure transit rights through the Panama Canal for September 1, highlighting surging demand and costs for canal access.

Projections for South Africa's citrus industry have been downgraded as conflicting global trade policies, ongoing geopolitical conflicts, and adverse weather conditions constrain production and shipping.

Disruptions at sea and bottlenecks on land are pushing rates up and ensuring the industry remains buoyant

Washington is rolling out expanded economic measures designed to cripple Tehran's informal financial systems, specifically focusing on cryptocurrency exchanges, precious metals trade, and maritime shipping routes.

Euroseas has extended the charter for its feeder containership "Jonathan P" for two years at a rate of $26,000 per day. This agreement secures continued employment for the vessel in the shipping market.

Global shipping and trade data indicates a sustained rebound in international commerce throughout June, signaling ongoing economic normalization.

Hotel sales surged 28% in the first half of the year as investors increasingly purchase distressed properties with plans to fund extensive renovations and modernize operations.

Rail logistics from Xi'an have shipped approximately 34,000 air conditioning units to European markets this year, highlighting growing trade connectivity along the Belt and Road route.

Rising shipping costs through the Strait of Hormuz are driving up India's bill for imported crude oil.

Only two tankers passed through the Strait of Hormuz on Monday, marking the lowest number of transits since the beginning of May. This significant drop indicates a notable decrease in shipping activity through the crucial waterway.

The US Treasury Department is targeting the trading firm Wellbred due to its alleged connections with Iranian oil shipper Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani, following recent announcements of tougher action against companies linked to Iran.

Six months into the ongoing regional conflict, maritime traffic through the strategic Hormuz Strait has significantly declined, leaving numerous sailors stranded amid worsening instability.

Sigma Advanced Systems saw its shares locked in the upper circuit due to a long-term contract, while GE Shipping is set to consider new developments.

The Panama Canal Authority announced plans to reduce shipping traffic as an El Niño-fueled drought has lowered water levels, impacting global maritime trade.

A list of key stocks including TCS, GE Shipping, and Hindustan Copper are highlighted for investors to monitor in today's trading session.

Thousands of worshippers gathered at OVO Arena Wembley in London for MOGmusic’s 'Back to Basics' Worship Experience on Saturday, August 22nd.

The UN chief has proposed a mechanism aimed at safeguarding the flow of fertiliser through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route.

The blockade of the Black Sea is causing billions of dollars in losses for Ukraine, leading shipping companies to abandon Odesa. This situation highlights the severe economic impact of the naval restrictions.

The imposing new grand mosque in Tivaouane, Senegal, remains closed, leading to prolonged anticipation and impatience among the faithful in the religious city of El Seydi El Hadji Malick Sy.

Melina Travlou, President of the Union of Greek Shipowners, addressed the challenges and shared goal of shipping decarbonization ahead of critical negotiations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in London from September 1-4.

The Rhine River in Germany has seen a rapid increase in its water level following recent rainfall, allowing cargo ships to load more goods, though challenges from previously historic low levels still remain.

Europe's hot and dry summer has caused dangerously low water levels on the Rhine River, threatening one of the continent's most crucial trade routes and impacting shipping and commodities.

Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to urgently rescue worshippers abducted during Friday prayers at a mosque in Kpenya, Niger State, amid escalating attacks and mass abductions in the Borgu-Kainji corridor.

Shipping Deputy Minister Marina Hadjimanolis emphasized the need for investment in social life, culture, and opportunities for young people to revive Cyprus' villages, beyond just new infrastructure.

Bandits invaded a mosque in a Niger community, abducting worshippers during an attack. The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in the region.

Gunmen have abducted worshippers from a mosque in Nigeria, prompting Niger State authorities to order security forces to rescue those taken in Borgu.

A new Al Jazeera podcast episode, 'Deja Vu,' examines how oil, shipping, and war have shaped the Gulf region, drawing parallels between the historical Suez Crisis and potential future challenges in the Strait of Hormuz.

The iconic Sarajevo band 'Zabranjeno pušenje' captivated multiple generations with an unforgettable rock spectacle at the Art Front festival in Sremska Mitrovica, performing their greatest hits to a packed Hippodrome.

Iran has reportedly granted safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz for Iraqi oil tankers, easing concerns over regional shipping security.

The East-West container shipping market remains uncertain as geopolitical tensions, capacity restrictions, and cargo congestion, particularly in major Chinese ports, continue to inflate freight rates.

A militant Islamist group in Nigeria has attacked participants gathered for Friday prayers, resulting in the deaths of worshippers.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Botswana (CAAB) has issued an invitation for bids for customs clearing and shipping services.

Nvidia is reportedly considering shipping its AI chips with reduced memory, a move that rival Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) states it is not worried about.

New reports indicate that intermodal shipping is providing substantial savings for shippers, with potential returns on investment reaching up to 49%.

Studies indicate that freighters reinforced against ice could safely extend the Hudson Bay shipping season beyond its current four months, though ice will continue to pose challenges in coming decades.

A parasitic infection outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce, which has caused 27,000 cases of explosive diarrhea, may have been shipped to seven additional states.

Construction is underway for what will be the world's largest ethane carrier, marking a significant development in global shipping and energy transport.

Shipping Minister Hadjimanolis welcomed Italy to an expanded maritime cooperation meeting in Limassol, marking Italy's first participation in the four-nation Mediterranean alliance alongside Cyprus, Greece, and Malta.

The Shippers Council in Kenya has announced the appointment of a new chairperson, a move that comes as the shipping sector faces increasing pressures and challenges.

The Star's Market Watch provides an update on CW MTT Shipping and Logistics Berhad (MTTSL-CC), including its stock performance and related financial information.

Major retailers like Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Home Depot are intensifying efforts to provide deliveries in three hours or less, moving beyond next-day shipping to meet consumer demand for rapid fulfillment.

The Panama Canal is set to reduce shipping traffic as a result of a drought exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon.

Pakistan's ports are seeing increased activity and financial benefits due to changes in Gulf shipping routes caused by ongoing conflicts.

The Port of Koper has stated it is not concerned by potential competition from the northern shipping route. Officials express confidence in their port's strategic advantages and operational efficiency.

The Panama Canal has implemented reductions in shipping traffic due to a severe drought exacerbated by the El Niño phenomenon. This measure impacts global trade and logistics.

Newegg is selling a 512GB memory card for the Nintendo Switch 2 for just $95 with free shipping, effectively tripling the console's total storage capacity.

Cheap storage??

Germany's inland shipping fleet is facing an investment backlog, with vessels averaging 70 years old, highlighting a need for modernization in the sector.

An interview reveals how PUBG Mobile developed an immersive crossover event with the popular anime series Naruto Shippuden, bringing new content to the mobile game.

South Korea's decision to conduct an Arctic shipping test with Russia has provoked anger among European nations, who are seeking to isolate Moscow.

Wedbush analysts have described the shipping of Nvidia's H200 GPUs to China as a 'minimal' positive development for the company.

Humpback whales are increasingly sighted in New York's waterways, delighting cruise passengers, but face growing threats from boat traffic in the busy shipping lanes.

An escalating oil crisis in the Middle East has led to supertanker prices soaring to unprecedented record highs, impacting global shipping and energy markets.

Norwegian car shipping company Höegh Autoliners has reported a drop in its second-quarter results and consequently reduced its dividend for the period.

Larry Montes has been charged with federal hate crimes after allegedly attacking congregants during a Shabbat service in Manhattan. Federal authorities state that Montes admitted his motive in a recorded interview.

The US Coast Guard has removed a 10-year condition of entry on vessels from Nigeria, a development expected to make Nigerian ports more attractive to international shipping lines and boost trade and investment.

Sheri Lynch has been recognized by Guinness World Records for her extensive collection of hippopotamus-themed items, which began with a single plush toy in her teenage years and now numbers over a thousand.

Seoul is investing in a polar sea highway to reduce dependence on critical maritime passages like the Strait of Hormuz and stimulate economic growth in the port city of Busan.

Diana Shipping offloaded $32.06 million worth of shares in Genco Shipping & Trading, adjusting its investment portfolio in the maritime transport sector.

Shares of shipping and leasing firm Danaos Corp surged to a new yearly peak of $152.63, reflecting strong investor confidence in the maritime logistics sector.

A large illicit cannabis cargo originating from Sacramento was seized en route to Atlanta and Orlando, highlighting ongoing cross-state drug trafficking operations.

Maritime carriers forced to avoid Red Sea and Strait of Hormuz bottlenecks are increasingly taking longer southern African routes, coinciding with a notable rise in Somali pirate attacks.

Chinese logistics provider ZTO is capitalizing on its operational scale to expand reverse logistics services, adapting to a mature shipping market where traditional growth rates are stabilizing.

The wind-whipped Ross Fire in Texas has rapidly expanded to 50,000 acres, leading to five-alarm alerts and mandatory evacuations in Jack and Palo Pinto Counties. Shelters have been opened and highways closed due to the blaze.

Saudi officials have publicly emphasized the critical importance of keeping key maritime chokepoints open, reflecting broader concerns over regional trade security and navigation rights.

Logistics leaders are implementing strategies to handle anticipated spikes in demand and operational pressure during the upcoming peak shipping season.

Research indicates that microglia decline and inflammatory immune cell infiltration in the hippocampus after age 50 could be key drivers of neuroinflammation and cognitive decline.

Freight rates have surged to multi-decade highs across major trade routes, allowing shipping companies to reap unprecedented profits amid ongoing international conflicts and supply chain disruptions.

With geopolitical tensions in the Middle East keeping wholesale electricity prices elevated, providers like TotalEnergies and Chippio are offering competitive August tariffs to attract cost-conscious consumers.

Oil prices dipped and stocks rose as traders assessed a US plan for “economic asphyxiation” of Iran, targeting its digital assets, gold, and shipping sector.

Greek Minister of Shipping Vassilis Kikilias visited Piraeus port, accompanied by the Coast Guard Chief, to ensure readiness for the return of holidaymakers.

Greek shipping supports the proposal put forward by Liberia and Panama for the green transition of shipping under the International Maritime Organization (IMO), while maintaining that an alternative proposal is also being considered.

A campaign is underway to halt the Gascoyne Gateway Marine Complex proposal, citing concerns over extensive dredging and shipping lanes impacting a critical humpback whale resting ground within Western Australia's newest marine park.

A judge has ruled that Homeland Security's ICE violated court orders by going undercover in a Minneapolis church and spying on worshippers as part of a recently revealed 'Operation Puppet Master' scheme, potentially leading to contempt charges.

The shipping industry is raising concerns that an exemption for small batteries, such as those in laptops or power banks, from declaration requirements is increasing the risk of fires on vessels.

The head of a shipowners union has urged for the adoption of a 'realistic' decarbonization plan for the shipping industry. This highlights ongoing discussions and challenges in achieving environmental sustainability within maritime transport.

Melina Travlou, representing Greek shipping, has expressed support for the proposal by Liberia and Panama regarding the green transition of shipping within the International Maritime Organization.

Europe has managed to avoid a Rhine shipping crisis, with freight costs surging as the Kaub remains below the critical 77-cm threshold for normal navigation.

Star Bulk Carriers is exploring share-swap deals as a more attractive investment option following the termination of its agreement with Diana Shipping to acquire 16 ships from Genco.

Five boys are set to appear in court in Norway after a student at a secondary school in Østfold was allegedly taped, whipped with his own belt, and locked in a toilet.

Risks to Black Sea shipping are increasing, with Ukraine offering to coordinate with Turkey on civilian shipping safety after repeated attacks have affected Turkish vessels and resulted in a Turkish seafarer's death.

Data indicates that fewer than 20 ships transited the key Strait of Hormuz over the past weekend, suggesting a notable decrease in traffic.

A recall has been issued for frozen raw dog food after illnesses were linked to salmonella contamination. FDA testing found the bacteria in products shipped across 11 states.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar has reportedly defied a court injunction by once again preventing worshippers from accessing a chapel, despite the injunction being issued and sustained in August.

A South Korean ship has commenced its inaugural journey to Europe via the Arctic route, marking a significant milestone in maritime navigation and potentially opening new trade pathways. This voyage highlights the increasing viability of Arctic shipping lanes.

Gunmen abducted more than 60 worshippers from a mosque in Nigeria and subsequently attacked several nearby villages.

Terrorists attacked a mosque in Niger State, abducting worshippers during Jumat prayers.

A cargo ship utilizing sail power has successfully transported goods to Amsterdam, showcasing an environmentally friendly shipping method.

Exporters are facing substantial losses estimated at Rs450 billion and severe shipping space shortages due to a dramatic 372% surge in freight costs after a recent strike.

Armed individuals have reportedly kidnapped several worshippers from a mosque in a region plagued by violence from criminal gangs, marking the latest mass abduction incident.

Myanmar, Thailand, and Russia are collaborating on a project to construct a new canal that would significantly shorten shipping routes between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, potentially saving four to six days of travel time.

Residents of Churchill, Manitoba, are open to the possibility of a longer shipping season but emphasize the need to consider its potential effects on the town's tourism industry and natural environment.

Shipping on the Rhine River is gradually resuming after being severely impacted by drought and low water levels, which threatened the German economy, though conditions are still far from normal.

Arctic shipping faces significant challenges and daunting prospects within the hotly contested polar region, highlighting complex geopolitical and environmental factors.

A severe drought is causing Europe's major rivers like the Loire, Danube, and Rhine to reach historically low levels, impacting shipping and raising concerns about climate change.

Several US companies, including WisdomTree, DexCom, and Agilent Technologies, saw their stock prices hit new 52-week highs. Pulse Biosciences, Heartflow Inc, and Aveanna Healthcare also reached all-time high stock values.

French shipping giant CMA CGM will implement an inland emergency fee, citing lower river levels as the reason for the additional charge.

Water levels on the Rhine River are showing gradual improvement, which could ease concerns about shipping and transportation along the vital waterway.

Iceland is currently evaluating its relationship with Europe, with key issues such as fishing rights, shipping, and national sovereignty at the forefront of the discussion.

Construction is underway for what is set to become the world's largest ethane carrier, marking a significant development in the global shipping and energy transport industry.

Major shipping companies UPS, FedEx, and DHL are reportedly returning billions of dollars in Trump-era tariffs to American customers, raising questions about eligibility for these refunds.

The Black Sea has become an increasingly dangerous front for commercial shipping, with grain exports and bulk carriers now at the center of escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

Europe is grappling with extreme weather conditions, including water shortages that are disrupting households, companies, shipping, and industrial supply chains, underscoring the critical need for global climate change management.

DP World has successfully moved 500,000 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) overland across the GCC region. This logistical achievement comes amidst ongoing disruptions in global shipping, highlighting alternative transport solutions.

Volunteers in Wexford have expressed outrage after vandals damaged community toilets by stuffing them with dirt and wood chippings. The incident has drawn criticism from local residents.

The Manitoba premier's office announced that shrinking sea ice now allows for year-round shipping on Hudson Bay without the need for the most expensive icebreakers.

China is reportedly seeking to reduce the shipping time to Europe by half, indicating a strategic push to enhance trade efficiency and connectivity. This initiative could significantly impact global logistics and supply chains.

The Panama Canal is implementing reductions in shipping traffic as a result of an El Niño-fueled drought, impacting global maritime trade.

The Panama Canal authority has announced plans to cap daily transits, anticipating a severe El Niño phenomenon that could impact water levels and shipping operations.

An analysis highlights critical aspects of dual-side logistics that shippers and brokers often overlook in the freight industry.

A proposed management buyout of Irish Continental Group appears to be on the verge of failing. The article discusses the potential collapse of the deal for the shipping and ports company.

Gulf states are reportedly pushing for efforts to break the deadlock with Iran and facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane.

Star Bulk Carriers finds stock exchange deals more attractive for its investment plans, especially after the termination of its agreement with Diana Shipping to acquire 16 Genco vessels.

Yemen's Iran-backed Huthis have claimed responsibility for targeting eight Saudi oil tankers since late July, when the militant group declared a maritime blockade on Saudi shipping.

Shipping containers have revolutionized ports, cities, and global trade, but this transformative impact on globalization is now reaching its limitations.

An investigation reveals that tech companies are purchasing large quantities of rare old books, which are then shipped to warehouses for training their artificial intelligence models.