Trade & Sanctions

Italian SMEs Bill Expands Inventory Financing Securitizations

The Italian Senate approved an annual SMEs Bill on March 4, 2026, amending Law 130 to expand structuring options for inventory financing securitizations. The changes allow for foreign originators and multijurisdiction asset pools, enhancing Italy's position in the international ABS market.

CNIPA Stops Notifying Local Agents for Madrid Designations

The Chinese National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) has ceased notifying local Chinese trademark agents for international trademarks designating China via the Madrid System. CNIPA now only serves the WIPO-recorded representative or the trademark holder directly, requiring proactive monitoring by rights holders and their representatives to avoid missing response deadlines.

Court Orders Removal of IEEPA Tariffs on U.S. Imports

The U.S. Court of International Trade has ordered the government to remove International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs on U.S. imports, following a Supreme Court decision. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) indicated it could begin issuing refunds within 45 days, though importers are advised to monitor liquidation entries and file protests.

DOJ Trade Fraud Task Force Revisits FDCA Charges

The DOJ's Trade Fraud Task Force, established six months ago, has announced its leading prosecutorial partner, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Illinois. This move signals an increased focus on enforcing the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) in trade fraud cases, building on past successful prosecutions involving honey import schemes.

Data Brokers Face New Compliance Rules from CalPrivacy and FTC

California and the FTC are implementing new compliance rules for data brokers. California's Delete Request and Opt-out Platform (DROP) mechanism is now active, with data deletion requirements starting August 1, 2026. The FTC has also issued warnings regarding the Protecting Americans' Data from Foreign Adversaries Act (PADFAA).

CIT Suspends IEEPA Duty Refund Order for CBP ACE Functionality

The U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) has suspended its order requiring immediate refunds of IEEPA duties. This suspension allows U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) time to develop new Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) functionality to process these refunds, estimated to be implemented in 45 days. Importers are advised to complete electronic refund setup and consider filing protests.

Totton & Eling Town Council Grounds Maintenance Contract Award

Totton and Eling Town Council has awarded a grounds maintenance contract following a challenge during the initial standstill period. This notice republishes the award with a new standstill period, providing updated assessment details to bidders.

Post Office Limited Behaviour Change Contract Notice

Post Office Limited has published a contract notice for a behaviour change consultancy service valued at £105,000. The contract was awarded to Q5 LTD and is effective from March 4, 2026, to March 31, 2026.

UK Gov Contract Awarded for Substance Use Service Evaluation

City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council has awarded a contract valued at £720,000 for the 'Voices in Recovery' Substance Use Service Evaluation. The contract aims to incorporate lived experience into shaping treatment and recovery services, aligning with national drug strategy.

Post Office Limited Reward Strategy Contract Notice

Post Office Limited has published a contract notice for a reward strategy review, valued at up to £85,000. The contract was awarded to KORN FERRY (UK) LIMITED and is effective from February 12, 2026, to April 17, 2026. This notice is part of the UK's procurement transparency requirements.