Trade & Sanctions

ITC Strawberry Imports Ruling, OFAC License, USTR Investigation, FMC Rules

The FCC reported on an ITC ruling finding injury from Mexican strawberry imports and an OFAC general license authorizing certain transactions related to Russian oil. It also noted a USTR investigation and FMC rules concerning ocean carriers.

OFAC Authorizes Venezuela Oil and Gas Trade via General Licenses

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's OFAC has issued several general licenses expanding authorizations for trade and investment in Venezuela's oil and gas sector. These licenses, issued starting in late January 2026, aim to provide opportunities for U.S. companies while outlining specific limitations and conditions.

FCC Draft Rules for AI Chip Export Controls

The FCC is reportedly drafting new export control regulations for AI chips, which would establish a tiered licensing framework based on computing power. These draft rules signal a significant shift in U.S. strategy for controlling advanced semiconductor technology.

USTR Initiates Section 301 Investigations on Forced Labor Import Enforcement

The USTR has initiated Section 301 investigations into 59 countries and the EU for failing to effectively prohibit the importation of goods produced with forced labor. These investigations could lead to the reimposition of tariffs.

Agency Information Collection Activities Proposals and Approvals

The U.S. Department of State is publishing a notice regarding its agency information collection activities. This notice informs the public about proposals and approvals related to the collection of information, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act.

HAVANA Act Claims: Expanded Eligibility and Appeal Deadlines

The Department of State has issued a final rule updating the HAVANA Act of 2021. This rule expands eligibility for claims to include injuries occurring on or after September 11, 2001, and establishes a 60-day deadline for submitting appeals of adverse decisions. The changes are effective March 16, 2026.

Terrorist Designation: Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood

The U.S. Department of State has designated the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood as a foreign terrorist organization under Executive Order 13224. This designation, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, imposes sanctions and asset blocking measures.

U.S. Department of State Regulations and Official Documents

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) has announced the availability of government regulations and official documents through its feed on Regulations.gov. This notice serves as a general announcement for interested parties to access these resources.

Delegation of Authority: Restricting Foreign National Entry

The Department of State has issued a delegation of authority regarding the restriction of foreign national entry into the United States. This notice outlines the internal procedures and responsibilities for implementing such restrictions.

Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund 2026

The U.S. Department of State's Embassy Uganda has announced the 2026 Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF 2026). Exchange program alumni are invited to submit project proposals by April 20, 2026, with potential awards ranging from $5,000 to $35,000.