The White House recently initiated a Section 232 investigation into copper imports, citing national security concerns on U.S. reliance of foreign-mined, smelted, and refined copper. The executive order directs the Commerce Department to determine if this dependence is harming domestic copper production and negatively impacting industries necessary to national defense, [...]
LABOR ACTION IMPACTS ROTTERDAM PORT OPERATIONS A labor strike at Rotterdam's Delta II terminal is intensifying, with Dutch union FNV Havens calling for dockworkers in other European ports to refuse handling vessels diverted from the terminal. This action raises concerns about potential cross-border “solidarity strikes,” which could disrupt regional trade. [...]
On February 10, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed two proclamations—Adjusting Imports of Steel Into the United States and Adjusting Imports of Aluminum Into the United States—reinstating 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports. The move eliminates prior exemptions and alternative agreements, significantly impacting global trade. WHY THE U.S. [...]
BIS PUTS NEW EXPORT LICENSE APPLICATIONS ON "HOLD WITHOUT ACTION" The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has paused reviews of new export license applications submitted after February 5, 2025. No formal announcement has been published from the agency, nor have the actions been announced on the White House website. [...]
On February 13, 2025, President Donald J. Trump announced the Fair and Reciprocal Plan, a new trade and tariff strategy aimed at addressing imbalances in international trade. This announcement follows the administration’s decision earlier in the week to impose 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. According to President Trump, [...]
On February 10, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued a proclamation adjusting imports of steel into the United States. WHITE HOUSE REINSTATES 25% TARIFF ON STEEL IMPORTS, NO EXEMPTIONS OR ALTERNATIVE AGREEMENTS This action reinstates a 25% tariff on steel imports, removing previous exemptions and alternative agreements with countries such [...]
On December 20, 2024, Mexico terminated a program that previously allowed U.S. apparel and textile importers to avoid paying duties by utilizing Mexican warehouses as fulfillment hubs through the Manufacturing, Maquila, and Export Services Industry (Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación) “IMMEX” program. The Mexican government’s decree, announced [...]
Air cargo volumes from Asia are on the rise, driven by strong demand and shifting trade patterns. However, as the market continues to grow, securing space on major trade routes is becoming increasingly difficult due to ongoing capacity constraints. SHIFT IN AIR CARGO CONTRACTS Over the past year, capacity issues [...]
China has announced a ban on the export of three critical rare minerals—gallium, germanium, and antimony—to the United States, citing national security concerns. These materials play an essential role in various high-tech industries, including semiconductors, fiber optics, solar energy, and defense technologies. The decision marks the latest development in an [...]
The incoming U.S. administration is placing a significant emphasis on foreign trade policy. Recent announcements regarding tariff plans and cabinet selections signal a focused approach to international trade as the new administration prepares for its term. Businesses and stakeholders across the global supply chain are closely monitoring these developments. JANUARY [...]
