OFAC Delists Altomare SA and Vessel Kallista from SDN List
The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced on January 21, 2026, the removal of Greek maritime company Altomare SA and its vessel, Kallista, from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. The entities were originally designated in November 2025.
UK Sanctions List Consolidation
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is consolidating its sanctions designations into a single UK Sanctions List (UKSL) effective January 28, 2026. This change aims to reduce non-compliance risk by simplifying identification of sanctioned individuals and entities, without altering the scope of sanctions or business obligations.
CBP Launches Mandatory Forced Labor Portal for Importers
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched a new, mandatory online Forced Labor Portal for importers to submit requests challenging shipment detentions or exclusions related to forced labor enforcement. This centralized platform replaces previous submission methods and is effective immediately.
OFAC Launches New Online Voluntary Self-Disclosure Portal
The U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Controls (OFAC) has launched a new online Voluntary Self-Disclosure (VSD) Portal to streamline reporting of potential sanctions violations. The portal aims to improve process visibility and communication for disclosing parties, and OFAC strongly encourages its use.
Treasury Seeks Input on CFIUS Investor Program and Streamlining Reviews
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Investment Security has published a request for information seeking public comments on streamlining the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) review process. Feedback is requested on a proposed Known Investor Program and other streamlining measures, with comments due March 18, 2026.
US Imposes Export Controls on AI Chips to China, Tariffs
The US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) issued a final rule on January 15, 2026, revising its export licensing review policy for advanced computing items to China. This change shifts from a presumption of denial to a case-by-case review for certain AI chips, while also imposing a 25% fee on such sales. Concurrently, a Section 232 Proclamation targets semiconductor imports with tariffs, offering exceptions for domestic use.
OFAC Issues Venezuela Oil Trade General Licenses
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued General License (GL) 46, authorizing certain transactions related to Venezuelan oil and petroleum products for established U.S. entities. This action aims to expand trade and investment opportunities, though broader sanctions remain in place.
Treasury RFI on CFIUS Known Investor Program
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued a Request for Information (RFI) regarding the implementation of the CFIUS Known Investor Program (KIP). The RFI seeks public input on formalizing this voluntary program, which aims to streamline foreign investment reviews. The comment period closes on March 18, 2026.
Supreme Court Invalidates IEEPA Tariffs
The U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision in Learning Resources v. Trump, ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize the President to impose tariffs. This decision invalidates previously imposed IEEPA tariffs and forecloses their future use as a statutory basis for tariffs.
OFAC Authorizes Expanded Oil Activities in Venezuela
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued new General Licenses (GLs) expanding authorizations for U.S. persons involved in Venezuela's oil and gas sector. These licenses permit a wider range of transactions related to oil extraction, export, and services, aligning with a broader U.S. strategy to relax sanctions.
Responsible Business Insights for 2026
Morrison & Foerster LLP and BSR released Episode 25 of their conversation series, discussing key themes in responsible business from 2025 and offering insights for businesses in 2026. The discussion covers driving measurable impacts amid regulatory complexity and emerging risks and opportunities.
UK Consults on Securitisation Framework Changes
The UK's FCA and PRA have published consultation papers proposing significant changes to the securitisation framework. The proposals aim to replace prescriptive due diligence requirements with a more principles-based approach, potentially impacting how investors assess credit risk, risk retention, and information availability. The consultation period is open for feedback.
Supreme Court Rules Trump Administration Lacked Authority to Impose Tariffs Under IEEPA
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration did not have the authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs. This decision impacts importers and exporters who may be entitled to refunds for tariffs previously paid under this authority.
Supreme Court Tariff Decision Impacts Construction Costs
A Supreme Court decision striking down some tariffs has been followed by new 15% tariffs, creating ongoing uncertainty for construction costs and material pricing. The article discusses the impact on the construction industry and legal tools for managing payment disputes.
Supreme Court Invalidates IEEPA Tariffs
The Supreme Court has ruled that the President lacks the constitutional authority under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to impose tariffs. The decision, in cases involving Learning Resources, Inc. and V.O.S. Selections, Inc., invalidates previously levied tariffs. Businesses that paid these duties are advised to consult legal counsel regarding potential refund options.
Swiss Sanctions Amended for Sudan
On February 18, 2026, Switzerland's Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research amended its ordinance on measures against Sudan. Seven individuals have been added to the sanctions list, with the measures taking effect immediately.
SECO Amends Ukraine Sanctions Ordinance
The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has amended Annex 8 of the Ordinance on Measures Relating to the Situation in Ukraine. The amendment modifies entries for 88 individuals and 92 organizations, with measures taking effect on February 24, 2026.
Swiss Ordinance on Sudan Sanctions Updated
Switzerland has updated its ordinance on Sudan sanctions following amendments by the UN sanctions committee. The SESAM database has been updated to reflect these changes, which enter into force in Switzerland without delay.
Ukraine Sanctions Measures Ordinance Update
On February 26, 2026, the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs (EAER) updated its interpretative aid for sanctions measures related to the situation in Ukraine. The modifications are visible in track changes mode within the updated document.
EU Sanctions Iran: Individuals, Entities, Asset Freeze, Drone/Missile Tech
The European Commission announced new EU sanctions against Iran, adding 15 individuals and 6 entities subject to asset freezes and travel bans. The measures also extend prohibitions on drone and missile technology exports to Iran, impacting its support for Russia's war in Ukraine.
EU Lifts Most Economic Sanctions on Syria
The EU has lifted most economic sanctions on Syria, including those related to banking, finance, energy, and transport, effective May 28, 2025. This decision supports Syria's transition and economic recovery, though certain restrictions like arms embargoes and individual listings remain. EU operators can now engage in previously restricted activities.
EU Sanctions FAQs on Provision of Services
The European Commission's Directorate-General for Financial Stability, Financial Services and Capital Markets Union has published Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the provision of services in the context of sanctions adopted following Russia's military aggression against Ukraine. These FAQs clarify specific sector-related questions for businesses operating within the EU.
EU Sanctions Against Russia and Belarus Updated
The European Commission has updated its guidance and FAQs regarding sanctions against Russia and Belarus. These updates address specific measures such as the Nord Stream infrastructure ban, provision of services, and the oil price cap, impacting entities under EU jurisdiction.
FAQs on Nord Stream Infrastructure Ban and Russia Sanctions
The European Commission has published Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) clarifying restrictions on Nord Stream infrastructure as part of sanctions against Russia. These FAQs address specific queries related to the ban and its implications.
Security Council Removes Syria Officials from ISIL/Al-Qaida Sanctions List
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2799 (2025) to remove Syria's transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa and transitional Minister for Interior Anas Hasan Khattab from the ISIL/Al-Qaida sanctions list. This decision, passed with 14 votes in favour and 1 abstention, is intended to support Syria's economic recovery and political transition.
Security Council Adds Four to Sudan Sanctions List
The UN Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1591 (2005) concerning the Sudan has added four individuals to its sanctions list. These individuals are associated with the Rapid Support Forces and have been designated under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.
Security Council Press Release on ISIL and Al-Qaida Sanctions
The UN Security Council issued a press release on February 27, 2026, concerning sanctions against ISIL (Da'esh) and Al-Qaida. The release details updates and decisions made by the Security Council regarding these sanctions regimes.
EU Accepts Price Undertaking from Chinese Electric Car Producer
The European Commission has accepted a price undertaking from Volkswagen (Anhui) Automotive Company Ltd. regarding its CUPRA Tavascan model. This acceptance exempts the company from countervailing duties, provided it adheres to minimum import prices, volume limits, and EU investment commitments.
EU Requests WTO Panel on China Royalties for High-Tech
The EU has requested the establishment of a WTO panel to rule on China's practice of empowering its courts to fix worldwide licensing conditions for standard essential patents. This action follows unsuccessful consultations and aims to protect EU high-tech companies and their investments in innovation.
EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on ABS from Korea and Taiwan
The European Commission has imposed definitive anti-dumping duties on imports of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) from South Korea and Taiwan. Duties range from 5.2% to 7.5% for Korea and 10.9% to 21.7% for Taiwan, following an investigation that found dumped imports were injuring EU manufacturers.
EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Valine from China
The European Commission has imposed definitive anti-dumping duties ranging from 31.3% to 53.8% on imports of valine from China. The investigation found that dumped imports were causing injury to the EU's valine industry. The EU market for valine is valued at €100 million, with imports from China accounting for approximately €80 million.
EU Steel Safeguard Measure Negotiations
The European Commission has welcomed the start of trilogue negotiations on a new EU steel safeguard measure. The proposed regulation aims to protect the EU steel industry by reducing tariff-free import volumes, doubling out-of-quota duties, and introducing a 'melt & pour' requirement. The measure is intended to be fully in place by July 1, 2026.
DOJ: Delhi Man Sentenced for Illegal Export of Aviation Components to Russia
The Department of Justice announced that Sanjay Kaushik was sentenced to 30 months in prison for conspiring to illegally export aviation components from Oregon to Russia. This action highlights the DOJ's commitment to prosecuting violations of export control laws, especially those involving sensitive technologies.
DOJ: Company, Owner, Employee Sentenced for Illegal Tech Export to Russia
The Department of Justice announced the sentencing of Eleview International Inc., its owner Oleg Nayandin, and senior employee Vitaliy Borisenko for illegally exporting millions of dollars of U.S. technology to Russia. The company was fined $125,000 and sentenced to probation, while the individuals received prison sentences.
Former U.S. Air Force Pilot Arrested for Training Chinese Military
The Department of Justice announced the arrest of former U.S. Air Force pilot Gerald Eddie Brown, Jr. for allegedly providing defense services and training to Chinese military pilots without authorization. The charges are in violation of the Arms Export Control Act.
Former Pilot Charged with Violating Arms Export Control Act
The Department of Justice announced the arrest of Gerald Eddie Brown, Jr., a former U.S. Air Force pilot, for allegedly providing unauthorized defense services and training to Chinese military pilots. This action is in violation of the Arms Export Control Act and International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).
CBP Uncovers Over $400 Million in Duty Evasion
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced two major trade enforcement actions under the Enforce and Protect Act (EAPA), uncovering over $400 million in unpaid trade duties. The largest case involved 23 U.S. importers and identified over $250 million in owed revenue from goods transshipped through third countries.
CBP Trade Fraud Probe: Two Arrested, $13.6M Gold Seized
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of $13.6 million in gold as part of a trade fraud investigation. The probe identified an estimated $86.47 million in evaded duties through a scheme involving misrepresenting gold jewelry shipments.
CBP Collects $1 Billion in Duties After Ending De Minimis Loophole
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced it has collected over $1 billion in duties on low-cost shipments since phasing out the de minimis loophole starting in May 2025. This action strengthens economic and national security by increasing oversight and preventing duty-free entry for goods from China and Hong Kong.
CBP Issues Withhold Release Order on Linglong International for Forced Labor
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against automobile tires manufactured by Linglong International Europe D.O.O. Zrenjanin in Serbia. This action, effective immediately, will detain all such tires at U.S. ports of entry due to evidence of forced labor in their production.
CBP Modifies Withhold Release Order on FGV Holdings Berhad
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has modified a Withhold Release Order (WRO) against FGV Holdings Berhad of Malaysia, allowing its palm oil and palm oil products to enter the U.S. effective January 15, 2026. This modification follows FGV's remediation of forced labor practices in its production processes.
Antidumping Duty Investigation: Unwrought Palladium from Russia
The U.S. Department of Commerce has made a preliminary affirmative determination in the antidumping duty investigation of unwrought palladium from Russia. A weighted-average dumping margin of 132.83% was found for the Russia-wide entity. The final determination is expected around April 28, 2026.
Silicon Metal Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations Final Determinations
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced final affirmative determinations in antidumping and countervailing duty investigations for silicon metal from Angola, Laos, and Thailand. The determinations establish weighted-average dumping margins and subsidy rates, impacting imports of silicon metal from these countries.
Preliminary CVD Investigations of Solar Cells from India, Indonesia, and Laos
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced preliminary affirmative determinations in countervailing duty investigations of solar cells from India, Indonesia, and Laos. Preliminary subsidy rates range from 80.67% to 143.30%. The final determination is scheduled for July 6, 2026.
Hardwood Plywood from China, Indonesia, Vietnam - Preliminary AD Determination
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced preliminary affirmative determinations in antidumping duty investigations of hardwood and decorative plywood from China, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Estimated weighted-average dumping margins range from 3.94% to 187.27% for China, 3.94% to 84.94% for Indonesia, and 196.14% for Vietnam.
Commerce Preliminary Affirmative Determination on Freight Rail Couplers from India
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced a preliminary affirmative determination in the countervailing duty investigation of freight rail couplers from India. Preliminary subsidy rates range from 5.90% to 64.27%, with specific rates assigned to individual exporters. The final determination is scheduled for July 13, 2026.
Commerce Revises Semiconductor Export Policy to China
The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has revised its licensing policy for semiconductor exports to China. Applications for specific advanced chips will now be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, provided certain national security and compliance requirements are met.
Applied Materials Pays $252M Penalty for Illegal China Exports
The Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced a settlement with Applied Materials Inc. (AMAT) and Applied Materials Korea, Ltd. (AMK) for illegally exporting semiconductor manufacturing equipment to China. AMAT and AMK will pay a penalty of approximately $252 million, the second-highest ever imposed by BIS.
Bulgarian National Sentenced for Illegal Export of Microelectronics
A Bulgarian national was sentenced to 38 months time served for conspiracy to illegally export U.S.-origin sensitive microelectronics to Russia. The scheme involved acquiring radiation-hardened electronic circuits from a U.S. company and shipping them to Russia between 2014 and 2018, violating export control laws.
BIS Administrative Enforcement Settlement with Vizicom ICT
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has reached an administrative enforcement settlement with Vizicom ICT. The settlement resolves alleged violations of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Specific details of the settlement and any penalties are available in the official order.
BIS Enforcement Settlement with Teledyne FLIR LLC
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has reached an administrative enforcement settlement with Teledyne FLIR LLC and its affiliates. The settlement resolves alleged violations of the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Specific details of the violations and penalties are outlined in the settlement order.
OFAC Designations and General License for Counter Terrorism
The US Treasury's OFAC has designated individuals linked to terrorism, narcotics trafficking, and atrocities in Sudan. These actions update the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List and include the issuance of a general license authorizing the wind-down of transactions involving Kovay Gardens.
Treasury Sanctions Exploit Broker Network for Cyber Tools
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's OFAC has sanctioned four individuals and one entity for their involvement in a network that exploits and sells U.S. government cyber tools. These designations are related to Russia-related sanctions and cyber-related activities.
OFAC Settles Syrian Sanctions Violations for $3,777,000
The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced an individual settled potential civil liability for $3,777,000 related to apparent violations of Syrian sanctions. The violations involved providing managerial services to Syrian real estate companies between January 2018 and December 2021.
Venezuela-related FAQ on Oil Resale
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued a new Frequently Asked Question (FAQ 1238) regarding the resale of Venezuelan origin oil to Cuba. This FAQ provides clarification on existing sanctions regulations.
OFAC Sanctions Iran's Shadow Fleet and Missile Programs
The US Treasury Department's OFAC has sanctioned Iran's shadow fleet and entities involved in its ballistic missile and weapons programs. Seventeen entities and four individuals have been added to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List, subjecting them to secondary sanctions.
OFAC Sanctions Nicaragua Individuals; Amends Russia License
The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has sanctioned five individuals in Nicaragua and issued an amended Russia-related General License. These actions update OFAC's Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List and provide guidance on specific transactions.
OFAC Removes Russia and Lebanon Sanctions Designations
The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed several individuals from its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. These removals include designations related to Russia and Lebanon, with some individuals previously linked to the Wagner Group. This action updates OFAC's sanctions lists and impacts entities that previously had dealings with these designated parties.
GSP Revisions, Petitions, Renewal, and Technical Modifications Notice
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) issued a notice regarding revisions to the 2017/2018 Annual GSP Product and Country Practices Review. This notice outlines the deadline for filing petitions related to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program and details technical modifications for GSP renewal.
USTR Initiation of Country Practice Reviews for India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated country practice reviews for India, Indonesia, and Kazakhstan. This action is part of the USTR's ongoing monitoring of trade practices in various countries.
USTR GSP Annual Product Review and Thailand Practice Review Initiation
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated the 2018 Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Annual Product Review and a review of Thailand's trade practices. This notice invites public comments on product petitions and Thailand's eligibility.
USTR Initiation of Country Practice Review of Turkey
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated a country practice review concerning Turkey. This review will assess Turkey's practices related to the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program.
GSP Hearing Notice for Country Practice and Designation Reviews
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has issued a notice regarding an upcoming hearing for ongoing country practice reviews of Bolivia, Ecuador, Georgia, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, and Uzbekistan, and for the country designation review of Laos under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program. Interested parties are invited to submit written comments and participate in the hearing.
Section 301 Investigation: China's Phase One Agreement Implementation
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated a Section 301 investigation into China's implementation of its commitments under the Phase One agreement. The USTR is seeking public comments and has scheduled a hearing to gather input on this matter.
Section 301 Investigation: Brazil's Trade Practices
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated a Section 301 investigation into Brazil's trade practices concerning digital trade, electronic payment services, tariffs, anti-corruption enforcement, intellectual property, ethanol market access, and illegal deforestation. This action seeks to determine if these practices are unfair or discriminatory.
Section 301 Investigation: Korea's Coupang Practices
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has received a petition to initiate a Section 301 investigation into Korea's acts, policies, and practices concerning Coupang. This action may lead to potential trade remedies if the investigation finds grounds for action.
USTR Statement on US-Indonesia Trade Deal
Ambassador Greer of the USTR has issued a statement regarding a trade deal between the United States and Indonesia, announced by President Trump. The statement highlights praise from American farmers and industry leaders for the agreement.
USTR Statement on Supreme Court IEEPA Decision
Ambassador Greer of the USTR has issued a statement regarding a Supreme Court decision concerning the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The statement was released in February 2026 as part of the USTR's press releases.
US-Indonesia Trade Deal Praised by Farmers and Industry
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) issued a press release announcing that a trade deal between the U.S. and Indonesia has been praised by American farmers and industry leaders. The release highlights positive reception from key sectors benefiting from the agreement.
Ambassador Greer Speaks on International Law, Peace, and Prosperity
Ambassador Greer of the USTR spoke to University of Virginia law students about the role of international law in promoting peace and prosperity. The speech, delivered in February 2026, highlighted the practical applications and importance of international legal frameworks.
USTR Seeks Comment on Critical Minerals Trade Agreement Design
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking public comment on the design of a plurilateral agreement concerning trade in critical minerals. This initiative aims to strengthen the resilience of critical mineral supply chains through policy actions and international cooperation.
484(f) Committee: USITC, Customs, Census Trade Data Modifications
The 484(f) Committee, comprising USITC, CBP, and Census, modifies non-legal 10-digit statistical reporting numbers in the HTS and Schedule B. A new requirement effective January 1, 2026, mandates that requests be submitted according to the four-digit HTS heading.
Executive Order Modifying Duties to Address Threats by Russian Federation
The President has issued an Executive Order modifying duties to address threats posed by the Russian Federation. This action, published on February 11, 2026, amends existing trade regulations and is associated with Executive Order 14384.