Trade Compliance

Export Licence Transmission Issue Resolved

The Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has confirmed that a transmission issue affecting export licences to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) has been resolved. Normal declarations can now resume.

Media Advisory: Foreign Affairs Council Meeting

The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for the Foreign Affairs Council meeting scheduled for March 16, 2026. The advisory outlines the indicative program, including discussions on Russia's war against Ukraine, the situation in the Middle East, and the EU Southern Neighbourhood.

EU Council Forward Look: March 16-29, 2026

The Council of the EU has released a forward look detailing upcoming meetings and key discussion topics between March 16-29, 2026. Topics include foreign affairs, energy, environmental standards, and economic policy.

President António Costa's Weekly Schedule

The European Council has published the weekly schedule for President António Costa for March 16-19, 2026. The schedule includes various meetings with international leaders and participation in the Tripartite Social Summit and the European Council meeting.

Media Advisory: Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council Meeting

The Council of the EU has issued a media advisory for the upcoming Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council meeting focused on energy matters. The meeting is scheduled for March 16, 2026, in Brussels and will cover topics including energy security, grid packages, and financing frameworks for nuclear energy.

Council Agrees Position to Streamline Artificial Intelligence Rules

The Council of the EU has agreed its position on a proposal to streamline rules for artificial intelligence (AI) systems. Key amendments include a prohibition on AI generating non-consensual intimate content and revised timelines for high-risk AI systems, with new application dates set for late 2027 and mid-2028.

European Council Meeting Press Briefing Advisory

The European Council has announced a press briefing for the upcoming meeting on March 19-20, 2026. The briefing will be held on March 17, 2026, in a hybrid format, with a registration deadline of 13:30 on the same day. This is an 'off the record' event.

Press Briefing for General Affairs Council

The Council of the EU has announced a press briefing for the General Affairs Council on March 17, 2026. The briefing will take place on March 16, 2026, and is designated as 'off the record'. Registration is required for journalists wishing to attend.

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.

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.