Trade & Export

Council Recommendation on Tackling Skills Shortages

The Council of the EU has adopted a recommendation to help member states tackle labour and skills shortages in strategic sectors. This non-binding guidance aims to boost competitiveness and resilience by investing in people's knowledge and skills, addressing challenges in areas like digital technologies, health, and farming.

Eurogroup Meeting Remarks on Macroeconomic Developments and Middle East Crisis

Remarks following the Eurogroup meeting on March 9, 2026, addressed macroeconomic developments, the impact of the Middle East crisis on energy markets and inflation, and the need to accelerate the energy transition and strengthen Europe's strategic autonomy. The meeting also endorsed Belgium's draft budgetary plan for 2026.

EU Leaders Discuss Iran War, Regional Attacks, and Energy Security

EU leaders discussed the war in Iran, regional attacks, and energy security with Middle Eastern countries. The statement condemned attacks, expressed solidarity, and announced humanitarian aid for Lebanon, while reaffirming commitment to regional stability and maritime operations.

Palladium CVD Investigation: Preliminary Affirmative Determination

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a preliminary affirmative determination in the countervailing duty investigation of unwrought palladium from the Russian Federation. Preliminary subsidy rates for Russian exporters were determined to be 109.10%. The final determination is scheduled for May 20, 2026.

Court of International Trade Orders Refunds for IEEPA Tariffs

The Court of International Trade (CIT) has ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to issue refunds for tariffs collected under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This decision follows a Supreme Court ruling invalidating these tariffs and applies to importers whose liquidations are not final.

Court Orders Refund of Invalid Tariffs on IEEPA Goods

The U.S. Court of International Trade ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection to refund invalid tariffs charged under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). This ruling provides nationwide relief for importers, though an appeal is expected.

Supreme Court Strikes Down IEEPA Tariffs; Trade Court Orders Refund Path

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) by the Trump administration were unlawful. Following this decision, the Court of International Trade has ordered a process for importers to seek refunds of these invalidated tariffs.

Basel Committee Report on Synthetic Risk Transfer Markets

The Basel Committee on Banking Supervision has published a report analyzing the growth of synthetic risk transfer (SRT) markets, which provide capital relief for banks managing corporate credit risk. The report identifies trends and supervisory concerns, estimating protected assets at approximately EUR 750 billion.

US and Hong Kong Stablecoin and Crypto-Asset Regulation Analysis

This analysis compares the regulatory approaches to stablecoins and crypto-assets in the US and Hong Kong as of March 2026. It highlights the US's evolving fragmented approach, including the GENIUS Act, and Hong Kong's unified, purpose-built licensing framework. The document aims to guide market participants through these distinct regulatory landscapes.

SEC Exempts Foreign Private Issuer Directors/Officers from Section 16(a) Filings

The SEC has issued an order granting an exemption from Section 16(a) beneficial ownership reporting requirements for officers and directors of certain foreign private issuers (FPIs). This exemption applies to FPIs incorporated in qualifying jurisdictions with substantially similar disclosure regulations, such as Canada, the EEA, the UK, and others. The order aims to align with the Holding Foreign Insiders Accountable Act.