Humanitarian Assistance Exception Notification for Petroleum Products
The UK's Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has released guidance and a notification form for 'relevant persons' to report the use of a humanitarian assistance exception related to petroleum products for Syria. This exception, under the Syria (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, requires notification by the end of the calendar year in which activities take place.
USTR Launches Section 301 Investigations on Forced Labor Imports
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated Section 301 investigations into 60 major trading partners to determine if they are effectively banning imports of goods produced with forced labor. The USTR is seeking public comment and will hold hearings on the matter.
US Drafts AI Chip Export Controls
The US is reportedly drafting new export control regulations for AI chips, which would implement a tiered licensing system based on computing power. These draft rules aim to position the US as a gatekeeper for the global AI industry and could impose significant pre-clearance requirements for high-volume exports.
UK Sanctions List Search Tool
The UK government has launched a search tool for its Sanctions List, which details designated individuals, entities, and ships subject to UK sanctions. This tool aims to assist users in identifying sanctioned parties and understanding their obligations.
Government Support for Canadian Workers and Employers Impacted by Tariffs
The Government of Canada has announced a plan to support workers and employers impacted by tariffs. The initiative outlines available resources for employment insurance, skills training, and educational financial aid for individuals, as well as resources for employers to manage and strengthen their workforce.
Canada Updates List of U.S. Products Subject to Counter Tariffs
The Government of Canada has updated its list of U.S. products subject to counter tariffs, effective September 1, 2025. Most counter tariffs have been removed, except for those on steel, aluminum, and autos, as negotiations with the U.S. continue.
Canada Amends and Repeals US Surtax Orders
The Governor General in Council of Canada has amended and repealed certain orders related to the United States Surtax under the Customs Tariff. These changes modify the application and scope of surtaxes on goods originating from the United States, impacting specific tariff items.
Prime Minister Statement on Canada-US Trade and US Policy
The Prime Minister of Canada announced that Canada will remove all of its tariffs on U.S. goods specifically covered under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This action is a response to evolving U.S. trade policies and aims to preserve Canada's trade advantage. The change will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Canada Launches Measures to Protect Strategic Industries
Prime Minister Mark Carney announced new measures to protect Canadian strategic industries impacted by U.S. trade disruptions. Key initiatives include a $5 billion Strategic Response Fund, a new Buy Canadian Policy, and support for workers and specific sectors like agriculture.
Delaware Proposes Cigarette and Vapor Tax Increases
Delaware's Governor has proposed significant increases to cigarette, vapor, and other tobacco product taxes. The cigarette tax would rise by over 70%, and vapor product taxes would double, aiming to generate an estimated $18.9 million in new state revenue.
Tax Foundation Experts Analyze AI Taxation Impact on Labor Markets
The Tax Foundation released a podcast episode discussing the potential impacts of taxing artificial intelligence on labor markets. Experts analyze current data, critique proposed policies, and suggest alternative reforms like worker retraining deductions.
Colorado Tax Proposal on Phantom Income
Colorado's HB26-1221 proposes changes to the state's alternative minimum tax and net operating loss provisions. The Tax Foundation argues these changes would overstate income, leading to double taxation and distorting taxpayer behavior.
New Mexico SB 151 Decouples from Full Expensing
New Mexico SB 151, passed by the legislature, decouples the state from federal full expensing provisions for machinery and equipment, and includes foreign earnings in the corporate tax base. This change is expected to negatively impact the state's corporate tax environment.
Europe Capital Gains Tax Rates 2026
This analysis details the top marginal capital gains tax rates for individuals across European countries in 2026. It highlights Denmark as having the highest rate at 42.0% and Romania (not explicitly listed but implied by context) as having the lowest. The data provides a comparative overview for investors and financial professionals.
Hexamine from China, Germany, India, Saudi Arabia Investigation
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) has concluded its final investigation into hexamine imports from China, Germany, India, and Saudi Arabia. This investigation covers both antidumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) aspects, with final determinations expected by December 22, 2025.
Slag Pots from China Investigation Final Phase Completed
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) has completed the final phase of its investigation into Slag Pots from China. This action concludes investigations under Inv. No. 701-TA-753 and 731-TA-1731, involving both countervailing duties and antidumping duties.
Quartz Surface Products from India and Turkey Investigation Review Completed
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has completed its review investigation concerning Quartz Surface Products from India and Turkey. This review, identified under Investigation Numbers 701-TA-624-625 and 731-TA-1450-1451, concluded with a determination on December 16, 2025.
Thermoformed Fiber Products from China and Vietnam Investigation
The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has issued a final determination in its investigation concerning thermoformed molded fiber products from China and Vietnam. This investigation, identified by Inv. Nos. 701-TA-739-740 and 731-TA-1716-1717, concludes the final phase of the inquiry.
Security Council Sanctions Committee Update
The UN Security Council Sanctions Committee provided an update on its sanctions list on March 10, 2026. This notice details amendments and additions to the list of individuals and entities subject to sanctions under Resolution 1988.
Security Council Removes Entry from Sanctions List
The UN Security Council's 1518 Sanctions Committee has removed one entry from its sanctions list. This action follows a review of listed individuals or entities subject to sanctions measures.
USTR Probes 17 Countries for Excess Manufacturing Capacity
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated Section 301 investigations into 17 countries for structural excess manufacturing capacity and production. The probe aims to address potential unfair trade practices and could lead to the imposition of tariffs.
OFAC Issues Russia-related General License 134 on Crude Oil
The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued Russia-related General License 134, authorizing the delivery and sale of crude oil and petroleum products of Russian Federation origin loaded on vessels as of March 12, 2026. This license provides specific exceptions to sanctions for certain oil transactions.
Commerce Final Results: Antidumping Duty on Pasta from Italy
The U.S. Department of Commerce announced final results for the antidumping duty administrative review of certain pasta from Italy for the period July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. Final dumping margins range from 2.65% to 7.00% for specific producers, and 5.21% for non-selected companies.
Australia Inbound M&A Volume Highest in Decade
Australia experienced its highest inbound M&A volume in over a decade during 2025, with 445 deals announced by overseas bidders. The total inbound deal value reached US$45.8 billion, a 47 percent increase from the previous year, driven by strong activity in the energy, mining, and utilities sectors.
Antitrust Enforcement Fines Regional Snapshots 2025
This document provides a visual breakdown of antitrust enforcement fines across Europe, APAC, and the Americas for 2025. It highlights regional differences in enforcement priorities and the types of conduct most commonly penalized by competition authorities, noting significant financial figures for Europe.
Global Antitrust Enforcement Report Analysis
A&O Shearman has published a global antitrust enforcement report analyzing trends across over 30 jurisdictions. The report highlights a significant increase in cartel fines, reaching USD3.3 billion in 2025, and increased scrutiny of digital markets and investigative powers.
International Trade Compliance Guidance
Braumiller Law Group has released guidance on "Hot Topics in International Trade," offering expertise on global trade compliance. The content appears to be informational, highlighting available consulting services and related video content.
Global Antitrust Fines Reached $7.7 Billion in 2025
A&O Shearman's March 2026 report indicates global antitrust fines rose to $7.7 billion in 2025, the highest since 2021. While the total number of infringement decisions decreased, the report highlights a strategic shift by regulators towards more efficient enforcement, focusing on key sectors and utilizing "soft" tools alongside targeted "hard" fines for deterrence and precedent-setting.
SEC Grants Section 16(a) Exemption for Foreign Private Issuer Directors
The SEC has issued an exemptive order providing relief from Section 16(a) reporting requirements for directors and officers of foreign private issuers organized in specific jurisdictions, effective March 5, 2026. This exemption applies if the issuer is organized in a qualifying jurisdiction and subject to substantially similar regulations.
UK Pharma Legal Developments and Trade Deal Updates
This briefing from Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer summarizes key UK legal developments in the pharmaceutical sector from 2025. It details a UK-US trade deal impacting pharmaceutical exports and discusses the UK Government's Life Sciences Sector Plan, which aims to enhance R&D, investment, and healthcare innovation.
Podcast: UK vs. U.S. Investment Screening Regimes
Wiley Rein LLP published a podcast discussing the differences between the UK's investment screening regime under the National Security and Investment Act and the U.S. CFIUS program. The podcast features insights on evolving national security concerns and practical advice for businesses involved in cross-border investments.
Supreme Court Ruling on IEEPA Tariffs Impacts Duty Refund Process
The Supreme Court has ruled against the use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) for enacting tariffs. While the ruling entitles importers to refunds, a specific process is still being developed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Court of International Trade (CIT). CBP is working on an ACE functionality to streamline refunds, with a target deployment in 45 days.
EU to Provisionally Apply EU-Mercosur Trade Agreement Pending CJEU Opinion
The European Commission announced it will provisionally apply the EU-Mercosur Interim Trade Agreement (iTA) despite the European Parliament's request for a Court of Justice of the EU opinion. This follows ratification by Argentina and Uruguay, with provisional application potentially starting in May 2026.
Third-Party Arbitration Funding: Turmoil and Growth in 2025
A March 2026 article discusses the turbulent year for third-party arbitration funding in 2025, noting industry consolidation and a significant fraud suit. Despite challenges, the sector saw continued international arbitration claims, with 7% of new ICSID cases in 2025 involving funders.
SEC Exempts Foreign Private Issuers Directors Officers From Section 16 Reporting
The SEC issued an order exempting directors and officers of certain foreign private issuers from Section 16(a) reporting obligations, effective March 5, 2026. This action provides relief to individuals in qualifying jurisdictions with substantially similar reporting requirements, as clarified by subsequent FAQs.
Yukos Enforcement: ICSID vs. New York Convention Award Approaches in England
The English Commercial Court, in Hulley Enterprises Ltd & Ors v. The Russian Federation, granted enforcement of ICSID awards but declined to enforce costs and interest-on-costs components of New York Convention awards related to the Yukos arbitrations. This decision highlights differing judicial gatekeeping approaches for ICSID and New York Convention awards in England.
OFAC and BIS Guidance on Cuba Oil Exports
The U.S. OFAC and BIS have issued new guidance on oil-related transactions involving Cuba. OFAC announced a favorable licensing policy for specific resales of Venezuelan oil to Cuba, while BIS clarified the use of License Exception SCP for U.S.-origin petroleum exports. The guidance aims to support the Cuban people and private sector while restricting dealings with government entities.
Canada Eases Syria Sanctions on Imports, Exports, Investments, Services
The Government of Canada has eased significant sanctions against Syria, removing restrictions on imports, exports, investments, and financial services. Twenty-four entities and one individual were delisted, including major financial institutions, to facilitate economic recovery and investment.
Proposed Rule on Section 5949 NDAA Chip Supply Chain Ban
The FAR Council has issued a proposed rule to implement Section 5949 of the NDAA, clarifying prohibitions on certain Chinese semiconductor products and services in federal procurements. The rule aims to enhance supply chain security for government contractors and applies broadly to all federal acquisitions.
FAR Council Proposes Rule Restricting Covered Semiconductor Products
The FAR Council has proposed a rule to implement Section 5949 of the FY 2023 NDAA, restricting federal agencies from procuring products or services containing certain covered semiconductor products from designated entities. The proposal includes requirements for contractor inquiry, certification, and potential reporting.
EU Proposes Industrial Accelerator Act with "Made in EU" Requirements
The European Commission has proposed the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA) to bolster the EU's industrial base and boost demand for EU-manufactured products. The act introduces "Made in EU" requirements across strategic sectors, aiming to reduce dependencies and increase manufacturing's share of EU GDP.
EC Seeks Technical Advice on Taxonomy Regulation Disclosures
The European Commission has requested technical advice from the European Supervisory Authorities (ESAs) on key performance indicators (KPIs) for the Disclosures Delegated Act under the Taxonomy Regulation. The EC aims to review and simplify taxonomy reporting, with advice due by October and potential amendments targeted for Q1 2027.
Insurance and Supply Chain Disruptions During Conflict
Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP published guidance on navigating insurance coverage for supply chain disruptions during conflict, specifically referencing the Iran War. The article highlights potential coverage gaps in business interruption policies and advises businesses to proactively build records and review policy wordings.
Global Regulation Diverging, Impacting Companies
A recent analysis suggests global regulation is moving towards divergence rather than convergence, creating new risks and strategic friction for multinational companies. This trend impacts areas like sustainability, AI, data protection, and antitrust, increasing compliance burdens and providing new leverage for activist investors.
Regulatory Scrutiny of Procedural Compliance and Penalties in 2025
In 2025, regulators in the EU, China, and the US increased enforcement of procedural non-compliance. The European Commission fined Eurofield approximately USD194,000 for incomplete information, and the Italian AGCM fined Ryanair USD1.47 million for similar issues. These actions highlight a growing trend of penalties for procedural missteps.
EU Statement on Restrictive Measures Against Terrorism
The EU has issued a statement regarding Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/455, which updates restrictive measures to combat terrorism. This decision repeals previous articles and expands the scope for imposing measures against individuals and entities associated with terrorist acts.
EU Council Press Briefings for Transport, Energy, and Environment Councils
The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for press briefings preceding the Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council (Energy) on March 16 and the Environment Council on March 17, 2026. Journalists are invited to register for a hybrid format briefing by March 13, 2026.
Press Briefing for General Affairs Council
The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for a press briefing concerning the General Affairs Council meeting on March 17, 2026. The briefing will take place on March 13, 2026, and is designated as 'off the record'. Journalists must register by March 13, 2025, to participate.
European Council Invitation: Middle East, Ukraine, Competitiveness, MFF
European Council President António Costa has invited members to a meeting on March 19-20, 2026, to discuss the Middle East escalation, Ukraine, strategic competitiveness, the Multiannual Financial Framework, defense readiness, and migration. The invitation outlines key agenda items and the urgency of coordinated responses.
EU Statement on Countries Aligning with Terrorist List Update
The EU has issued a statement noting that several non-EU countries have aligned with a recent Council Decision updating the EU's terrorist list. This alignment means these countries will conform their national policies to the updated list of individuals and entities subject to restrictive measures.