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ITC Notice of Expedited Reviews for Steel Wire Strand Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Orders

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has issued a notice scheduling expedited reviews to determine if revoking antidumping and countervailing duty orders on steel wire strand from Brazil, India, Mexico, South Korea, Japan, and Thailand would likely lead to material injury. These reviews are based on the adequacy of domestic interested party responses.

SECO Removes Individuals from Ukraine Sanctions List

Switzerland's State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) has removed 7 individuals from the sanctions list related to the situation in Ukraine. These amendments to Annex 8 of the ordinance came into force on March 20, 2026, at 11 pm CET.

US Court Orders IEEPA Tariff Refunds for Importers

The U.S. Court of International Trade (CIT) ordered U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to refund approximately $166 billion in IEEPA tariffs to importers. While CBP initially stated it could not comply due to the scale, it has proposed a new portal, CAPE, to process bulk refunds, with an estimated readiness of April 2026.

BIS Fines Vizocom $374,474 for Exporting Controlled Data to China

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has fined Vizocom $374,474 for illegally exporting controlled technical data related to military antennas to a Chinese manufacturer. This action highlights the risks of non-compliance with export control regulations, particularly for defense contractors working with China.

Argentina Repeals Restrictive Pharmaceutical Patentability Guidelines

Argentina has repealed restrictive 2012 patentability guidelines for chemical and pharmaceutical inventions, effective March 18, 2026. This change is expected to improve patent protection for pharmaceutical technologies and align examination standards with international norms. Applicants with pending cases may need to reassess their prosecution strategies.

USTR Launches Section 301 Investigations on Excess Capacity and Forced Labor

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated two multi-country Section 301 investigations concerning excess manufacturing capacity in 16 economies and forced labor practices in 60 economies. Written comments are due by April 15, 2026, with public hearings to follow.

OFAC Issues Venezuela Sanctions Relief for Oil and Gold

The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued General License 52, authorizing certain transactions with Petróleos de Venezuela, S.A. (PdVSA) and its entities for established U.S. entities. This relief aims to facilitate engagement in Venezuela's oil, petrochemical, and other industrial sectors.

Supreme Court Limits Presidential Tariffs; New Trade Investigations Launched

The Supreme Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act did not authorize President Trump to impose sweeping tariffs, striking down over $100 billion in revenue. The administration has since launched new trade investigations under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 and imposed temporary tariffs under Section 122.

OFAC Russia-related General License 134A Issued

The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has issued Russia-related General License 134A, authorizing the delivery and sale of crude oil and petroleum products of Russian Federation origin loaded on vessels as of March 12, 2026. This action provides specific guidance on transactions involving Russian energy exports.

USITC: Trade Reviews for Steel Wire Strand from Brazil, India, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, Thailand

The US International Trade Commission (USITC) has published a notice scheduling expedited five-year reviews for prestressed concrete steel wire strand from Brazil, India, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and Thailand. These reviews will assess whether continued dumping or subsidization is likely to occur if existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders are terminated.

FTZ 173 Washington Manufacturing Authority Application

The Foreign-Trade Zones Board has received an application from the Port of Grays Harbor for manufacturing authority for Imperium Renewables, Inc. (IRI) within FTZ 173 in Washington state. The application seeks to allow IRI to manufacture biodiesel and glycerin, with public comment invited.

MARAD Foreign Vessel Coastwise Trade Request - ALOLKOY

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) has received a request for the use of the foreign vessel ALOLKOY in U.S. coastwise trade. This notice serves to inform the public and solicit potential objections or comments regarding this request.

USPTO Rule: Patent Practitioner Required for Foreign Applicants

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has issued a final rule requiring foreign applicants and patent owners to use a registered patent practitioner. This rule aims to ensure that foreign entities are represented by qualified professionals during patent prosecution.

Pacific Fishery Management Council Public Meeting Notice

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has published a notice regarding a public meeting for the Pacific Fishery Management Council. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 6, 2026, and will cover topics related to fishery management.

South Atlantic Fishery Management Council Public Meetings Announced

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced upcoming public meetings for the South Atlantic Fishery Management Council. The meetings are scheduled for April 13-16, 2026, with specific times detailed for both the Council and Scientific and Statistical Committee sessions.

Fisheries off West Coast states salmon modification inseason actions

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has published a rule modifying West Coast salmon fisheries inseason actions for 2024 and 2025. These modifications are part of ongoing management measures for the fisheries off the West Coast states.

Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel Meeting Announced

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced a meeting of the Atlantic Highly Migratory Species Advisory Panel. The meeting will be held virtually from May 12-14, 2026, to discuss relevant fisheries management issues.

NOAA Natural Resource Damage Assessment Restoration Project Information Sheet Collection

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has submitted a new information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review. This pertains to the Natural Resource Damage Assessment Restoration Project Information Sheet, and the public has 60 days to comment.

Snapper-Grouper Fishery South Atlantic 2026-2027 Recreational Season for Black Sea Bass

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has issued a final rule establishing the 2026-2027 recreational fishing season for black sea bass in the South Atlantic snapper-grouper fishery. This rule sets the specific dates for recreational fishing activities for the upcoming season.

Pacific Fishery Management Council Public Meetings Announced

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced upcoming public meetings for the Pacific Fishery Management Council. The meetings are scheduled to begin on April 6, 2026, with advisory body meetings, followed by the main council meetings from April 8-12, 2026. A closed session is scheduled for April 8 to discuss litigation and personnel matters.

Pentafluoroethane (R-125) from China: Final Countervailing Duty Review

The International Trade Administration (ITA) has published the final results of its administrative review of countervailing duties on Pentafluoroethane (R-125) from the People's Republic of China for the period of review in 2023. This notice confirms the final duty rates applicable to importers and exporters.

Initiation of Countervailing Duty Investigations on Graphite Electrodes

The International Trade Administration (ITA) has initiated countervailing duty investigations into large diameter graphite electrodes from the People's Republic of China and India. These investigations will determine if these imports are unfairly subsidized by their respective governments, potentially leading to the imposition of duties.

Large Diameter Graphite Electrodes from China and India Investigations Initiated

The International Trade Administration (ITA) has initiated less-than-fair-value investigations into large diameter graphite electrodes imported from China and India. These investigations will determine if these imports are being sold in the U.S. at less than fair value, which could lead to the imposition of antidumping duties.

Truck Bed Covers from China: Less-Than-Fair-Value Investigation Initiation

The International Trade Administration (ITA) has initiated a less-than-fair-value investigation into truck bed covers from the People's Republic of China. This action is based on a petition filed by domestic producers and will determine if these imports are being sold at unfairly low prices in the U.S. market.

Truck Bed Covers From China: Countervailing Duty Investigation Initiation

The International Trade Administration has initiated a countervailing duty investigation into truck bed covers from the People's Republic of China. This action follows the filing of a petition by domestic producers and will determine if Chinese exporters are receiving unfair government subsidies.

Steel Pipes and Tubes Antidumping Duty Review Preliminary Results

The International Trade Administration (ITA) has published the preliminary results of its administrative review of antidumping duties on heavy-walled rectangular welded carbon steel pipes and tubes from the Republic of Korea for the 2023-2024 period. The notice also includes a rescission, in part, of the review.

EU Statement on Restrictive Measures for Ukraine Annexation

The EU Council announced that several non-EU countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine) have aligned with EU Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/438. This decision renews restrictive measures in response to Russia's illegal annexation of Ukrainian territories until February 2027.

European Council Remarks on Competitiveness, Growth, Jobs, and Autonomy

European Council President António Costa delivered remarks on March 19, 2026, highlighting the focus on competitiveness, economic growth, job creation, and strategic autonomy. Key areas discussed include integrating energy and telecommunications into the single market, investing in innovation and skills, and addressing energy security through increased homegrown production.

EU Statement on Ukraine Sanctions Alignment

The EU High Representative issued a statement on behalf of the EU regarding the alignment of several non-EU countries with Council Decision (CFSP) 2025/490. This decision extends restrictive measures related to the situation in Ukraine until March 6, 2027, and updates annex information. The statement welcomes the commitment of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Serbia, and Ukraine to align their national policies.

European Council Discusses Ukraine Developments with President Zelenskyy

The European Council met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss developments in Ukraine. The Council reaffirmed its unwavering support for Ukraine's independence and territorial integrity, welcoming progress on reforms and inviting the Council to open accession clusters without delay. They also reiterated support for a just and lasting peace based on UN principles.

EU Council President Costa Welcomes UN Secretary-General Guterres, Stresses Multilateralism

European Council President António Costa met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres to emphasize the importance of multilateralism and the rules-based international order. Costa reaffirmed the European Union's strong support for the UN's work, particularly in challenging global times.

European Council Conclusions on Middle East Security and Iran

The European Council has issued conclusions on Middle East security and Iran, condemning Iran's military strikes and calling for de-escalation. The EU will continue to protect its security interests and citizens in the region, and Member States are urged to reinforce maritime operations and air defence capabilities.

European Council Appoints Boris Vujčić as ECB Vice-President

The European Council has appointed Boris Vujčić as the Vice-President of the European Central Bank for an eight-year term, effective June 1, 2026. This appointment follows consultations with the European Parliament and the ECB's Governing Council.

European Council Conclusions on Ukraine, Middle East, Competitiveness, Defence, Migration

The European Council adopted conclusions on March 19, 2026, addressing key geopolitical and economic issues including Ukraine, the Middle East, competitiveness, single market, European defence, security, and migration. These conclusions outline the Council's positions and strategic priorities on these matters.

Euro Summit Statement

The Euro Summit adopted a statement on March 19, 2026, concerning economic policy and capital markets within the Eurozone. The statement was released by the EU Council and is available for review.

European Council Discusses Competitiveness and Strategic Autonomy

The European Council has approved the 'One Europe, One Market' action plan to enhance European competitiveness and strategic autonomy. Key initiatives include completing the single market by resolving internal market barriers by March 2027, developing the Capital Markets Union, and advancing the digital euro project.

Middle East conflict threatens slowing global trade growth

The WTO forecasts global merchandise trade growth to slow to 1.9% in 2026 from 4.6% in 2025, with the Middle East conflict posing a significant downside risk. Elevated energy prices could further reduce trade growth by up to 1.0 percentage point, impacting food supplies and services trade.

WTO Arbitrator to Set Trade Suspension in Indonesia-EU Palm Oil Dispute

A WTO arbitrator has been tasked with determining the level of trade suspension Indonesia can impose on the EU in a palm oil biofuels dispute. Indonesia requested to suspend concessions worth US$2.8-5.6 billion annually due to alleged non-compliance by the EU with a previous ruling. The Dispute Settlement Body also agreed to a panel reviewing China's measures on standard essential patent licensing.

State Department Partners with El Al Airlines to Return Americans

The State Department announced a partnership with El Al Airlines to facilitate the return of American citizens from Israel to the United States. Over 2,000 Americans have been returned via chartered flights, with El Al offering discounted tickets and reserving seats on regular flights for those wishing to depart Israel.

Deputy Secretary Landau Meets Guatemalan Officials on Security Cooperation

The U.S. Department of State issued a readout on a meeting between Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau and Guatemalan Foreign Minister Carlos Martínez and Minister of Defense General Henry Saenz. The officials discussed cooperation on combating narco-trafficking, transnational criminal organizations, port security, and illegal immigration.

Statement on the Death of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church

The U.S. Department of State issued a statement mourning the passing of Ilia II, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Georgian Orthodox Church. The statement offers condolences to the people of Georgia and the faithful of the church, acknowledging his spiritual leadership.

Deputy Secretary Landau Meets Uzbekistan Special Representative Kamilov

The U.S. Department of State issued a readout of a meeting between Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau and Uzbekistan's Special Representative Abdulaziz Kamilov on March 19, 2026. They discussed cooperation on counterterrorism, illegal immigration, and enhanced commercial and defense ties.

US-Angola Global Health Cooperation MOU

The United States and Angola signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the America First Global Health Strategy. The U.S. intends to provide $71 million in funding, with Angola investing $50 million, to support HIV, malaria, and global health security programs.

OFSI General Licence for Kazakh Oil Exports

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued General Licence INT/2026/9247168, permitting activities related to the supply, purchase, transportation, or delivery of Kazakh Oil. This licence is issued under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

Guidance on Integration Certificate for Defence Export Controls

The UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has published guidance on completing the Integration Certificate required under Article 3 of the Agreement on Defence Export Controls. This guidance aims to assist exporters in understanding the necessary information and ensuring accurate submission of technical details.

Guidance on Submitting Export Licence Applications for Defence Controls

The UK Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) has published new guidance for exporters on submitting licence applications under the Agreement on Defence Export Controls. This guidance aims to help exporters understand requirements, provide accurate information, and ensure timely processing of their applications.

OFSI General Licence for Kazakh Oil Exports

The Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) has issued a general licence exempting certain activities related to Kazakh oil exports from prohibitions under the Russia Regulations. This licence, effective March 19, 2026, applies to specific transactions involving PJSC Transneft and its subsidiaries, provided the oil is not Russian-owned and meets transit conditions.

USITC Maintains Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Orders on China Shelving/Racks

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has determined to maintain existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders on kitchen appliance shelving and racks from China. This decision follows five-year sunset reviews, concluding that revoking the orders would likely lead to the continuation or recurrence of material injury to the domestic industry.

ITC Five-Year Review of Forged Steel Fittings from India and South Korea

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has initiated full five-year reviews to determine if revoking existing countervailing and antidumping duty orders on forged steel fittings from India and South Korea would likely lead to material injury. The ITC found responses from South Korean parties adequate and decided to conduct full reviews for both India and South Korea to ensure administrative efficiency.

ITC Expedited Five-Year Review Notice: Tetrahydrofurfuryl Alcohol from China

The U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) has issued a notice scheduling an expedited five-year review to determine if revoking the antidumping duty order on tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol from China would likely lead to the continuation or recurrence of material injury. The review is based on an inadequate response from respondent interested parties.