Oil, cars and TVs, these are the U.S.’ top imports for 2009, as they were for 2008, only the value has dropped considerably. We’re still a ‘consumer’ nation in many regards, in fact, ‘over consumption’ is probably more apt.

On the surface, our annual review of the top U.S. imports and exports and trade partners (with expert analysis from Coface), could be viewed as just another list of trade statistics, but the real story is what it says about a society and culture-its values, integration with other countries, knowledge capital, technological capabilities, resources (or lack thereof), and so much more.

Admittedly, making an analysis of imports and exports by value alone is only part of the picture, but it does provide an interesting starting point. Moreover, when you look at multiple years’ worth of trade statistics, that’s where the trends begin to emerge. Perhaps one day we’ll see oil imports drop from the number one spot, and for that matter, a better balance between our imports and exports.

Now that would be a cover story!

In the meantime, this issue includes several great articles on other trends. Longtime contributing writer April Terreri spoke with a number of supply chain academics to get their take on what’s hot in the industry. Sustainability was mentioned, but so too were things like near-sourcing, developing appropriate talent and expertise, and a few others that may catch your attention.

Mobile technology is quickly gaining ground because data is increasingly available in real time, reports Mary Shacklett, while equipment prices have also come down considerably. Meanwhile, Gail Dutton writes about the latest trends in reverse logistics, including multi-channel visibility, which helps give a seamless experience to the end customer.

You’ll also find a new column on the last page-Extreme Logistics-a fun profile of some radical innovations and services that are being used to address extreme logistics challenges. For instance, this month we chose E-Green Technologies’ Bullet 580 Airship, which will be ready to fly in a few months. Among its various uses, the airship is perfect for getting project cargo delivered in remote and hard to access locations.

In the vein of pioneering inventions, WT100 will be a first-time participant in BNP Media’s virtual trade show on August 5, entitled Virtual Green Expo. If you haven’t tried one out yet, this would be a good one with which to get your feet wet. After logging in on your computer, you can visit a 3-D exhibit hall and stop by exhibitor booths for product literature, presentations, and demos. You can join in a booth chat with other attendees and there are even giveaways at the show.

The Virtual Green Expo focuses on three pillars of sustainability-business, social, and environmental. Several of the speakers include Kathy Loftus, Global Leader of Sustainable Engineering and Energy Management for Whole Foods, and Michael Deane, LEED AP, and Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer for Turner Construction Company. Sign up online at www.virtualglobalgreenexpo.com.

We’ll see you there.