Trade & Sanctions

SEC Exempts Foreign Companies' D&Os from Insider Reporting

The SEC has issued an order exempting directors and officers (D&Os) of certain foreign private issuers (FPIs) from Section 16(a) insider reporting requirements. This exemption, effective March 18, 2026, applies to D&Os in qualifying jurisdictions like Canada, the EU, and the UK, relieving them of the obligation to report initial ownership and subsequent transactions within two business days.

EU Industrial Accelerator Act: Focus on Green and Procurement

The EU has published a proposal for its Industrial Accelerator Act, shifting focus from high-tech sectors to decarbonizing heavy industry and introducing 'Buy European' rules for public procurement. The Act aims to bolster EU industrial capacity and competitiveness, with significant implications for supply chains and international trade relations.

EU-Canada CETA Trade Agreement Updates and Digital Trade Negotiations Launched

The EU and Canada have advanced their trade relationship under the CETA agreement by adopting an interpretation on investment provisions and expediting dispute resolution for SMEs. They also agreed to amend the GMP Protocol to include active pharmaceutical ingredients and launched negotiations for a Digital Trade Agreement.

EU and Canada Launch Digital Trade Agreement Negotiations

The EU and Canada have launched negotiations for a Digital Trade Agreement (DTA) to facilitate digital trade and enhance consumer protection. This agreement aims to establish clear rules for digital transactions, building on the existing CETA framework and complementing the non-binding Digital Partnership.

Invitation to Tender: Kitchen Replacement and Upgrade

Bolsover District Council has issued an invitation to tender for a kitchen replacement and upgrade program for council-owned homes, with an estimated value of £3.24 million. The tender notice, published on March 6, 2026, outlines the scope of works and submission deadlines for interested contractors.

Embark Trust Estates Works and Capital Projects Dynamic Market Notice

Embark Multi Academy Trust has published a dynamic market intention notice for Estates Works and Capital Projects services across the UK. This notice, issued under the Procurement Act 2023, aims to create a flexible procurement route for various construction and maintenance services.

Print & Design Framework Termination Notice

The Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames has published a termination notice for its Print & Design Framework procurement. The decision was made due to reduced demand, and future services will be procured under below-threshold procedures.

Department for Education Contract Award: Freelance Policy Advisor

The UK Department for Education has awarded a contract for a Freelance Policy Advisor to Andrew Cowan for £29,400, including VAT. The contract is for services related to the Open Innovation Team and will run for one year.

Navy Future Dredging Contract Awarded

The UK Ministry of Defence has awarded the Navy Future Dredging Contract Main Works to Boskalis Westminster Limited for £9,200,000. The contract covers dredging works in naval ports, primarily Plymouth and Portsmouth, for an initial two-year period with options for extension.

Oldham Advice Services Tender Notice

Oldham Metropolitan Borough Council has published a tender notice for Oldham Advice Services, aiming to consolidate and improve financial inclusion support. The new commissioned partner model, funded by the DWP, will replace annual grant agreements and is expected to run from July 2026 to June 2029, with an option to extend. This notice also includes a preliminary market engagement exercise with a deadline of March 27, 2026.