Trade & Sanctions

USITC Institutes Patent Infringement Investigation 337-TA-1488

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has instituted an investigation into alleged patent infringement of certain gyro-stabilized electric unicycles and components. The investigation, based on a complaint by Inventist, Inc. and Alien Technology Group, Inc., names several Chinese manufacturers as respondents.

USTR Announces 2026 Trade Policy Agenda and 2025 Annual Report

The U.S. Trade Representative has announced the 2026 Trade Policy Agenda and the 2025 Annual Report. These documents outline the administration's 'America First' trade strategy, focusing on protecting U.S. jobs and expanding market access for American exporters.

Op-Ed: US Agriculture Trade Policy Under Trump Administration

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative published an op-ed detailing the Trump Administration's trade policy approach to support American farmers and food producers. The article outlines a two-fold strategy focused on negotiating trade deals and addressing foreign tariff regimes to ensure a level playing field for U.S. agriculture exports.

Rutile Titanium Dioxide from China Anti-dumping Investigation Initiated

The UK Trade Remedies Authority has initiated an anti-dumping investigation into rutile titanium dioxide originating from China. The investigation covers pigments and preparations containing a minimum of 80% titanium dioxide. Interested parties can register to participate.

DHS UFLPA Entity List Additions

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has added several new entities to the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List. These additions span various industries including textiles, food, biotechnology, and energy, with effective dates ranging from June 21, 2022, to January 15, 2025.

Gulf Conflict Impacts Global Oil and LNG Markets

Vinson & Elkins LLP published a notice on March 2, 2026, detailing the potential impacts of the Gulf conflict on global oil and LNG markets. The analysis highlights how the duration and intensity of hostilities could affect crude prices, contractual performance, and supply chain stability for energy companies.

UK Securitisation Proposals Diverge from EU Position

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) have released consultation papers proposing reforms to the UK securitisation framework. These proposals aim to liberalise due diligence obligations and align with international, particularly US, market practices, diverging from the EU's approach.

FinCEN and OFAC Intensify Efforts Targeting Mexican Cartel Money Laundering

FinCEN and OFAC are intensifying efforts against Mexican cartel money laundering, targeting over 100 US Money Services Businesses (MSBs) along the southwest border. Recent actions include sanctions against individuals and entities linked to the Hysa Organized Crime Group and proposed rulemaking to identify certain Mexican gambling transactions as primary money laundering concerns.

Europe's Phaseout of Russian Gas by 2027 and Contractual Risks

Europe is mandating the phaseout of Russian gas imports by 2027, creating significant market and contractual risks for energy companies. The guidance outlines the policy shift, its impact on gas and LNG contracting, and strategies for managing increased contractual risk due to compressed timelines and geopolitical pressures.

Russia/Ukraine Sanctions Update - February 2026

The U.S. OFAC issued an amended General License 131C extending certain transactions related to Lukoil International GmbH through April 1, 2026, and updated related FAQs. The EU also extended its sanctions against Russia until February 24, 2027, and added eight individuals to its sanctions list.