It's not unusual to see supply chain-focused regulators, such as the Federal Maritime Commission or the Surface Transportation Board, get involved in disputes between shippers, carriers and other partners.

But the White House? That's a different story.

Floods of imports and congestion at ports in Southern California garnered enough national attention that the Biden administration's ears perked up. The administration began to broker conversations, which led to commitments from several supply chain stakeholders to operate 24/7.

The work continues to decongest the ports and smooth cargo flows. The stories below take a look at some of 2021's regulatory actions, and how they impact importers, exporters and all parties in between.