OFAC Removes Russia-Related Entity from SDN List
The US Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed GLOBE TREKKERS LLC from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List. This action is a designation removal under Executive Order 14024, with a related license issued for the United Arab Emirates.
USITC Continues Investigations on Citric Acid from Canada and India
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has voted to continue investigations into citric acid and certain citrate salts imported from Canada and India. The USITC found a reasonable indication that U.S. industries are materially injured by these imports, which are allegedly sold below fair value and subsidized by their governments.
US and Mexico Launch USMCA Joint Review Discussions
The United States and Mexico have initiated the joint review process for the USMCA. Discussions will focus on reducing regional dependence, strengthening rules of origin, and enhancing supply chain security. Negotiators are scheduled to hold their first meeting the week of March 16, 2026.
CBAM Certificate Price Publication Schedule and Tender Deadline
The European Commission has announced the publication schedule for the first Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) certificate prices, which will be based on EU ETS auction clearing prices for 2026. Importers will need to purchase these certificates starting February 2027. A call for tenders for the Common Central Platform has also been issued, with offers due by March 20, 2026.
OFAC Venezuela Removals and Russia General License Update
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has removed certain entities and vessels from the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List related to Venezuela. Additionally, OFAC issued an amended Russia-related General License 129A, authorizing certain transactions involving Rosneft Deutschland GmbH and RN Refining & Marketing GmbH.
OFAC Issues Russia Oil License and Amends Venezuela Oil FAQ
The US Department of the Treasury's OFAC has issued Russia-related General License 133, authorizing the delivery and sale of Russian crude oil loaded on vessels as of March 5, 2026, to India. OFAC also amended a Venezuela-related FAQ concerning the resale of Venezuelan oil to Cuba.
EU Commission Updates Training for Customs and Tax Professionals
The European Commission has introduced a new training course for SMEs and tax officials on the Special Scheme for Small Enterprises, effective January 1, 2025. Additionally, the SAMANCTA training program for customs professionals has been updated. Both resources are available on the EU Learning Portal.
EU Customs Operation Finds Non-Compliance in Online Purchases
An EU-wide customs operation found that a significant majority of cosmetic products, personal protective equipment, and food supplements purchased online from third countries do not comply with EU product standards. The operation checked over 11,000 items between October and December 2025, with non-compliance rates ranging from 60% to 65%.
CBAM Common Central Platform Services Call for Tender
The European Commission has published a call for tender for services related to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) Common Central Platform (CCP). Interested economic operators must submit their offers by 20 March 2026. The CCP will be operational from 1 February 2027.
EU Customs Recognition Cycle 2026: Next Steps and Timelines
The European Commission has published the timelines and next steps for the 2026 EU Customs Recognition Cycle. Applicants, including educational institutions and importers/exporters, can expect eligibility checks, assessments, and final decisions by September 30, 2026.
EU Taxation: Call for Evidence on Simplifying Direct Taxation Rules
The European Commission has launched a call for evidence to gather feedback on simplifying EU direct taxation rules. The initiative aims to streamline corporate tax directives and reduce administrative burdens for businesses, with feedback requested until March 16, 2026.
EU Oil Price Cap FAQs on Russia/Belarus Sanctions
The European Commission has published Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the oil price cap on Russian and Belarusian crude oil and petroleum products. These FAQs aim to clarify compliance requirements and address potential circumvention risks associated with the sanctions regime.
EU-GCC Joint Statement on Iran's Attacks Against GCC States
The EU and GCC foreign ministers issued a joint statement condemning Iran's attacks against GCC states and reaffirming their strategic partnership. The statement calls for Iran to cease attacks, reiterates commitments to regional stability, and affirms the GCC's right to self-defense.
EU Farmers' Negotiating Position in Food Supply Chain Strengthened
The EU Council and Parliament have reached a provisional agreement to amend regulations governing agricultural products and the common agricultural policy. This aims to strengthen farmers' negotiating position in the food supply chain through measures like mandatory written contracts and enhanced producer organizations.
EU Statement on Third Countries Aligning with Russia Sanctions
The EU has announced that eight third countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, and Ukraine) have aligned with the EU's restrictive measures concerning Russia. This alignment ensures their national policies conform to the EU's Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/432, which added eight natural persons to the sanctions list.
Press Briefing for Economic and Financial Affairs Council
The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for a press briefing preceding the Economic and Financial Affairs Council meeting on March 10, 2026. The briefing will be held on March 9, 2026, and is open to EU accredited journalists.
EU Law to Protect Vulnerable Adults in Cross-Border Situations
The Council of the EU has agreed on a new law to protect the rights of vulnerable adults in cross-border situations within the EU. This regulation aims to ensure that adults who require support due to conditions like Alzheimer's have their autonomy and choices respected when moving between member states.
Notice to Exporters: Customs Licence Transmission Issues
HM Revenue & Customs and the Department for Business and Trade have issued a notice regarding issues with licence transmissions from LITE/SPIRE to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). This is causing customs clearance delays, and affected parties are advised to report declaration problems to CDS.
Export Control Joint Unit: Exporter Notices and E-Alert Sign-up
The UK's Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has issued a notice reminding exporters to sign up for e-alerts. This service provides important updates on training and changes to the UK's strategic export licensing regime.
Russia Sanctions Update: General Trade Licence for Fertilisers
The UK's Export Control Joint Unit has updated the general trade licence concerning Russia sanctions, specifically financial services and funds related to fertilisers. This notice provides details on the amendments to the existing licence.
Updated Guidance on Open Licence Returns and Exporter Obligations
The UK Export Control Joint Unit and Department for Business and Trade have updated guidance on open licence returns. This update clarifies exporter obligations, return submission requirements, and the process for accurate and timely reporting under revised compliance expectations.
EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Sweetcorn from China
The European Commission has imposed definitive anti-dumping duties ranging from 31% to 54.3% on sweetcorn imports from China. This action follows a 14-month investigation that found dumped prices were causing injury to the EU's sweetcorn industry, valued at €642 million.
OFSI Imposes £300,000 Penalty on Markom Management Limited
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has imposed a £300,000 penalty on Markom Management Limited (MML) for breaching financial sanctions legislation related to the Ukraine Regulations. The penalty stems from a payment made to a designated person in February 2018.
Bank of Scotland Fined for Russia Sanctions Breaches
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has imposed a £160,000 penalty on Bank of Scotland for breaches of the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. The breaches involved processing 24 payments totalling £77,383.39 to or from a designated individual's account.
OFSI Report on Vanquis Bank Limited Financial Sanctions Breach
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) issued a report against Vanquis Bank Limited (VBL) for breaching financial sanctions regulations. VBL failed to restrict access to a designated person's account for eight days, allowing fund withdrawal and transactions. OFSI deemed the breach moderately severe but not serious enough for a monetary penalty, opting for public disclosure.
OFSI Fines Svarog Shipping £5,000 for Sanctions Non-Compliance
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has imposed a £5,000 monetary penalty on Svarog Shipping & Trading Company Limited for failing to respond to a regulatory request within the required timeframe. This action stems from a breach of the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
Definitive Anti-Dumping Duty on Engine Oils and Hydraulic Fluids from Lithuania and UAE
The UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade has imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on certain engine oils and hydraulic fluids originating from Lithuania and the United Arab Emirates. This action follows a recommendation from the Trade Remedies Authority and aims to address unfair trade practices.
Trade Remedies Notice: Registration of Hot-Rolled Steel Plates from South Korea
The UK Department for Business and Trade has issued a notice requiring the registration of imports of hot-rolled steel plates originating from South Korea. This action is taken under the Taxation (Cross-border Trade) Act 2018 and impacts importers and exporters of this specific steel product.
Trade Remedies Notice: Registration of Imports of Creamy/White Limestone from Portugal
The UK Department for Business and Trade has issued a notice requiring the registration of imports of creamy/white limestone originating from Portugal. This action is taken under the Taxation (Cross-border Trade) Act 2018.
Trade Remedies Notice: Registration of Boom Lift Imports from China
The UK Department for Business and Trade has issued a notice requiring the registration of imports of boom lifts originating from China. This notice is published under the Taxation (Cross-border Trade) Act 2018 and takes effect on January 20, 2026.
Definitive Anti-Dumping Duty on Excavators from China
The UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade is applying a definitive anti-dumping duty on certain excavators originating from China. This notice details the application of the duty and related reviews.
Maritime Mutual Re-Insurance Wind Down General Licence
The UK Treasury has issued a General Licence allowing UK Insurers and Insurance Brokers to process funds related to Maritime Mutual Re-Insurance wind-down activities. This licence is granted under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 and permits transactions for contracts agreed prior to February 24, 2026.
PJSC Transneft Wind Down General Licence
HM Treasury has issued a General Licence for the wind-down of transactions involving PJSC Transneft, effective February 24, 2026, and expiring April 9, 2026. This licence exempts certain acts from Russia sanctions prohibitions to facilitate divestment and transaction closure.
Myanmar Humanitarian Activity General Licence
The UK has issued a General Licence (INT/2025/8257372) under the Myanmar (Sanctions) Regulations 2021 and the Global Human Rights Regulations 2020. This licence exempts certain 'Relevant Persons' from prohibitions when carrying out activities necessary for humanitarian assistance and supporting basic human needs in Myanmar.
Lukoil Bulgaria Entities General Licence Continuation of Business
HM Treasury has amended the General Licence concerning the continuation of business for Lukoil Bulgaria entities. This amendment extends the licence, allowing specified business operations to continue under certain conditions until February 13, 2026.
UK General Licence for Lukoil International Business Continuation
The UK Treasury has issued a general licence allowing certain business operations involving Lukoil International and its subsidiaries to continue, despite existing sanctions. This licence is effective from November 27, 2025, and expires on February 26, 2026.
OFSI General Licence for Lukoil Business Continuation
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued General Licence INT/2025/8031092, allowing for the continuation of business operations with Lukoil International Entities under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019. This licence was initially published on November 27, 2025, and updated on February 25, 2026.
OFSI General Licences Update
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has updated its collection of General Licences. The latest updates, issued in February 2026, include licences related to the wind-down of Russian entities like Maritime Mutual Re-Insurance and PJSC Transneft, as well as humanitarian activities in Myanmar and continuation of business for Lukoil and Rosneft subsidiaries.
UK Financial Sanctions FAQs
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has updated its Financial Sanctions FAQs. These updates provide technical guidance and information on various sanctions regimes, including specific country measures and licensing. The latest updates include amendments and additions to existing FAQs, with the most recent changes noted on February 25, 2026.
Russia Sanctions: Persons Subject to Financial Restrictions
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation have updated guidance on persons subject to financial and investment restrictions under the Russia sanctions regime. The guidance lists entities like GAZPROM NEFT, PJSC SBERBANK, and VTB BANK, detailing restrictions on transferable securities and loans.
OFSI General Licence for PJSC Transneft Wind Down
The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued General Licence INT/2026/8889196, allowing persons to wind down transactions involving PJSC Transneft. This guidance is issued under The Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.
TRA Executive Committee Terms of Reference
The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has published updated Terms of Reference for its Executive Committee, the body responsible for performance and delivery. The document outlines the committee's strategic leadership and resource prioritisation functions.
Trade Remedies Authority Digital Technology Procurement FOI Release
The Trade Remedies Authority has released a Freedom of Information disclosure regarding its procurement and use of digital and technology products. This notice provides public access to information concerning the authority's technology acquisition practices.
Trade Remedies Authority Spend Data FOI Release
The Trade Remedies Authority has released its spend data for August-September 2025 as a Freedom of Information (FOI) disclosure. This notice provides links to the published data files.
Trade Remedies Authority Governance and Board Members
The Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has published information regarding its governance structure, listing members of its TRA Board, Audit and Risk Assurance Committee, Remuneration Committee, and Executive Committee. Key documents such as terms of reference and framework documents are also linked.
TRA Launches Investigations into Glass Container Imports from China and Turkey
The UK's Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has launched two investigations into imports of glass containers from China and Turkey. These investigations will examine potential dumping and subsidisation practices that may be harming the UK glass industry.
Export Control Joint Unit Notices to Exporters
The UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) publishes notices to exporters regarding amendments to licences, changes to controlled goods, and updates on legislation and sanctions. The latest updates include information on transmission issues between LITE/SPIRE and CDS, a director jailed for illegal export, and updated guidance on open licence returns.
Export Licensing Statistics Release
The UK Department for Business and Trade has released the official statistics for strategic export control licensing decisions made between October and December 2025. These statistics provide data on licence applications processed by the Export Control Joint Unit.
Export Control Compliance Training Resources
The UK's Export Control Joint Unit and Department for Business and Trade have updated their guidance on export control compliance training. The page provides links to various training resources including courses, seminars, workshops, and webinars designed to help exporters understand their obligations under UK export control legislation.
Director Jailed for Illegal Export of Military Equipment
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has announced a prison sentence for a director involved in the illegal export of military night vision equipment. This notice details the prosecution outcome related to UK strategic export controls.
Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI) Annual Report
The Office of Trade Sanctions Implementation (OTSI) has published its first-year operational report, detailing activities from 2024 to 2025. The report outlines OTSI's powers, capabilities, operational functions, and engagement efforts, while also looking ahead to future priorities such as enhanced business support and proactive enforcement.
Guidance on Belarus Sanctions Trade Licence Considerations
The UK Department for Business and Trade has published guidance on considerations for granting trade sanctions licences related to Belarus. This guidance details specific conditions under which licences may be granted for military goods, technology, and related services, as well as for hydrazine imports.
UK Sanctions List Consolidation and OFSI List Closure
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) Consolidated List of Asset Freeze Targets closed on January 28, 2026. All UK sanctions designations are now consolidated under the UK Sanctions List. This change aims to streamline sanctions information for regulated entities.
UK Sanctions Guidance for Businesses
The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and HM Treasury have published new guidance for businesses and organisations on understanding and complying with UK sanctions. The guide outlines various types of sanctions and reporting obligations for regulated firms.
UK Sanctions Enforcement Action Case Studies and Lessons
The UK government has published a collection of case studies and lessons learned from sanctions enforcement actions taken by various bodies, including OFSI, NCA, OTSI, and HMRC. This resource aims to inform industry stakeholders about compliance requirements and potential penalties under UK sanctions regulations.
OCC GENIUS Act Proposal on Stablecoins
The Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) has issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPR) to implement the GENIUS Act concerning stablecoins. The proposal seeks public comment on regulatory frameworks for permitted payment stablecoin issuers, including rules on yield-bearing features and opt-out provisions for state-approved issuers. Comments are due May 1, 2026.
Germany NIS2 Cybersecurity Law Implementation Deadline
Germany's implementation law for the NIS2 Directive, effective December 2025, expands cybersecurity requirements to new sectors including digital services and manufacturing. Covered entities must register with the BSI by March 6, 2026, and comply with new security and incident reporting obligations.
USITC Investigates Chinese Biotech State Support and Pricing
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has launched an investigation into Chinese state support and pricing practices within the biotechnology sector. The investigation aims to assess the impact on U.S. industry competitiveness and market share, with a report due by January 2027.
USITC Launches Investigations into China Trade Relations and Biotech Support
The US International Trade Commission (ITC) has launched two Section 332 investigations: one examining the economic effects of revoking China's permanent normal trade relations status, and another reviewing China's state support and pricing practices in the biotechnology sector. These investigations will provide an analytical record for Congress and the administration regarding future trade and industrial policy measures targeting China.
OFAC Fines IMG Academy for Sanctions Violations
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has fined IMG Academy $XXX,XXX for accepting tuition payments from parents designated under sanctions. The enforcement action highlights the pervasive nature of sanctions risk across various sectors, including educational institutions.
CRD VI Consequences for M&A Transactions
CRD VI introduces a new harmonized regime for M&A transactions in the banking sector across the EU, requiring prior notification and, in some cases, approval from competent authorities. While national transposition is incomplete, the M&A provisions are set to apply from January 11, 2026.
EU-UK Competition Cooperation Agreement Signed
The European Commission and the UK have signed a competition cooperation agreement establishing a formal post-Brexit framework for antitrust and merger enforcement coordination. The agreement institutionalizes notification, coordination, and information-sharing mechanisms but requires ratification by both parties and is not yet in force.
UK ICO Guidance on Agentic AI and UK GDPR Compliance
The UK ICO has released a Tech Futures report analyzing agentic AI systems and their compliance with UK GDPR. The report emphasizes that developers and deployers of these systems must adhere to existing UK GDPR requirements, including those related to automated decision-making, data minimization, and accuracy.
Texas Court Requires US Domicile for Chapter 15 Recognition
The US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas ruled in In re Siu-Fung Ceramics Holdings that foreign debtors must have a US domicile, place of business, or property to qualify for Chapter 15 recognition. This decision aligns with the Second Circuit and diverges from the Eleventh Circuit's precedent.
CIT Orders Refunds of IEEPA Tariffs on Unliquidated Entries
The Court of International Trade (CIT) has ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to refund tariffs collected under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) on unliquidated and not finally liquidated entries. This ruling benefits all importers who paid these tariffs.
COINS Act Codifies Outbound Investment Security Program
The 2025 COINS Act, signed into law on December 18, 2025, codifies the Outbound Investment Security Program (OISP). While it does not immediately alter existing regulations, it mandates substantive changes to the OISP's scope, with new Treasury Department regulations due by March 2027.
Ninth Circuit Expands Personal Jurisdiction Over Foreign Tech Platforms
The Ninth Circuit expanded personal jurisdiction over foreign tech companies in data breach cases in Freeman v. 3Commas Technologies OÜ. The ruling allows foreign companies with significant digital activities and knowledge of California customers to be sued in California courts, reversing a lower court's dismissal.
Importers Can Preserve Rights for IEEPA Tariff Refunds
Following a Supreme Court ruling that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize presidential tariffs, importers can take steps to preserve their rights for refunds of paid duties. The US Court of International Trade is expected to address remedies soon, and importers have options including post summary corrections, protests, or lawsuits.
Supreme Court Invalidates Tariffs Imposed Under IEEPA
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not authorize the President to impose tariffs, invalidating recent "reciprocal" tariffs and fentanyl-related country measures. The decision will reshape the tariff landscape, with the Court of International Trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection expected to establish refund procedures for duties paid.
Horizon Sustainability Law News Bulletin - February 2026
DLA Piper's February 2026 sustainability law bulletin covers legislative and policy developments. Key updates include California's CARB hearing on SB 253 and SB 261 regulations, discussing proposed fees, penalties, and potential exemptions for insurers.
ESMA Final Draft RTS on Clearing Thresholds Under EMIR 3
The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published its final report with draft regulatory technical standards (RTS) amending the clearing threshold regime under EMIR 3. The changes shift the focus from ETD vs OTC to uncleared OTC transactions, with revised thresholds for various derivative classes.
Mideast War Disrupts LNG Contracts and Raises Supply Security Questions
The escalating conflict in the Middle East has disrupted LNG contracts, particularly due to the de facto closure of the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Qatari facilities. This has led to record-high spot prices and is raising urgent questions about supply security and contractual performance for energy companies.
Supreme Court Rules IEEPA Lacks Authority for Reciprocal Tariffs
The Supreme Court ruled in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) does not grant the President authority to impose reciprocal tariffs. This decision impacts an estimated $175 billion in collected tariff revenues, raising questions about potential refunds.
OFAC Fines Executive $3.77M for Syria Sanctions Violations
The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has settled with a real estate executive for $3.77 million for violating U.S. sanctions against Syria. The executive provided managerial services to Syrian real estate companies, which OFAC deemed an 'egregious' violation.
Court Orders Customs to Refund IEEPA Duties to Importers
The Court of International Trade has ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to refund International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) duties to all importers. CBP must liquidate unliquidated entries and reliquidate final entries without these duties.