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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

OFAC Designations and Removals - Counter Terrorism, North Korea, Narcotics

The US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) has updated its Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List with new designations related to counter-terrorism, North Korea, and narcotics. These updates include adding individuals involved in facilitating North Korea sanctions evasion and disrupting illicit networks.

USTR Section 301 Investigations into Excess Capacity

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) has initiated Section 301 investigations into structural excess capacity and production in 16 economies. The USTR is seeking public comments on these investigations, with a deadline of April 15, 2026.

USITC Continues Antidumping Orders on PET Film from China, India, Taiwan, UAE

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has determined to continue existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film, sheet, and strip from China, India, Taiwan, and the United Arab Emirates. This decision means these trade remedy measures will remain in place, affecting imports of the specified product.

USITC: China active anode material imports do not retard US industry

The US International Trade Commission (USITC) determined that imports of active anode material from China, previously found by Commerce to be sold at less than fair value and subsidized, have not materially retarded the establishment of a U.S. industry. As a result, antidumping and countervailing duty orders will not be issued.

UK Imposes Anti-Dumping Measure on Chinese Tin Mill Imports

The UK Government has accepted the Trade Remedies Authority's recommendation to impose new anti-dumping measures on imports of tin mill products from China. Duties of 27.85% and 49.98% will be applied to protect the UK's tin mill industry from injury caused by dumped imports.

TRA Investigation on US HVO Biodiesel - Negative Determination

The UK's Trade Remedies Authority (TRA) has completed its investigation into US HVO biodiesel and proposes a final negative determination, meaning no countervailing measure will be imposed. The TRA concluded that the Blenders Tax Credit subsidy programme no longer offers subsidisation to US exporters.

Commerce Final AD/CVD Determinations for Steel Fencing from China

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced final affirmative determinations in antidumping and countervailing duty investigations for temporary steel fencing from China. This action imposes duties on imports found to be unfairly priced or subsidized, impacting importers and exporters.

Export Licence Update for Typhoon Project

The Export Control Joint Unit has updated the open general export licence (OGEL) for military goods related to the collaborative Typhoon project. Turkey has been added as a permitted destination for exports under this licence.

Canadian Sanctions Laws Overview

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP has published an overview of Canada's complex sanctions laws, effective March 2026. The guidance details how these laws impact Canadian businesses and foreign states, outlining prohibitions, reporting obligations, and asset blocking requirements for entities operating in or with Canada.

Global Antitrust Fines Rose to $7.7B in 2025

Global antitrust fines reached $7.7 billion in 2025, the highest since 2021, driven by a few major cases, while the total number of infringement decisions fell. Enforcement is increasingly shaped by geopolitical and national security priorities, with a focus on sectors impacting the cost of living.

Treasury Roadmap for Countering Illicit Finance in Digital Assets

The U.S. Department of the Treasury has released a report to Congress outlining innovative technologies to counter illicit finance involving digital assets, as required by the GENIUS Act. The report assesses risks and proposes a technology and policy roadmap, while recommending Congress enact legislation to clarify rules for digital asset service providers and traditional financial institutions.

FATF Report on Stablecoin and Unhosted Wallet Risks

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) has released a report detailing risks associated with stablecoins and unhosted wallets for money laundering and terrorist financing. It provides recommendations and good practices for jurisdictions and the private sector to mitigate these risks.

ESMA Final Draft RTS on Margin Transparency and Clearing Costs

The European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) has published final draft Regulatory Technical Standards (RTS) on margin transparency requirements and clearing costs under EMIR 3. These drafts aim to improve transparency for clearing participants regarding margin calls and clearing fees.

Germany Updates Product Liability Law

Germany's Bundestag has begun reviewing a draft act to modernize its Product Liability Act, transposing an EU directive. The reform aims to update the law for digital products, AI, and global supply chains, with an expected entry into force by December 9, 2026.

EC Consultation on Private Equity Exit Obstacles

The European Commission has launched a consultation seeking feedback on obstacles faced by private equity investors when exiting investments in EU private companies. The consultation aims to improve access to finance for EU start-ups and scale-ups and will inform potential future regulatory or policy actions.

Trump Administration Establishes $20B Reinsurance Facility for Persian Gulf Shipping

The Trump administration has established a $20 billion reinsurance facility through the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to support private insurers providing coverage for maritime shipping in the Persian Gulf. This initiative aims to reduce war risk premiums and ensure the free flow of energy commodities.

CIT and CBP Outline IEEPA Tariffs Recovery Process

The Court of International Trade (CIT) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are outlining a process for importers to recover unlawful IEEPA tariffs. This guidance suggests importers may not need to file protests on all entries immediately, potentially reducing recovery costs. Importers are advised to update their ACE accounts and prepare for potential protest filings.

Ocean Carriers Add Fuel Surcharges Due to Middle East Disruptions

Major ocean carriers are implementing Emergency Fuel Surcharges (EFS) due to Middle East disruptions and increased routing costs. The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) requires carriers to provide 30 days' notice for such surcharges, making enforceability dependent on proper filing and effective dates.

Litigation Challenges Legality of Section 122 Duties

Twenty-four states and two private companies have filed lawsuits challenging the legality of Section 122 duties imposed on February 20, 2026. The complaints argue that the President lacks the authority to impose these duties, citing violations of separation of powers and nondelegation doctrines.

EU Maritime and Ports Strategies Adopted

The European Commission adopted the EU Industrial Maritime Strategy and EU Ports Strategy on March 4, 2026. These initiatives aim to strengthen the competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience of the EU's maritime ecosystem, covering shipbuilding, shipping, port infrastructure, and maritime technologies. They signal both business opportunities and increased regulatory scrutiny for maritime and infrastructure investors.

OFAC Sanctions Risks and Cartel Designations

OFAC has settled a $1.7 million case with IMG Academy for sanctions violations related to cartel-linked entities. This highlights increased compliance risks for entities with international touchpoints due to heightened cartel designations and sanctions enforcement.

India: INTERPOL Issues Silver Notice for Fugitive Economic Offender

India's Enforcement Directorate requested INTERPOL to issue a Silver Notice for Karan A. Chanana, chairman of Amira Pure Foods, in connection with an alleged Rs 1,200 crore bank loan fraud. The notice aims to trace and freeze assets acquired through criminal proceeds.

UK Sanctions Nearly 300 Russian Entities

The UK has announced its largest sanctions package against Russia, designating nearly 300 entities involved in critical energy revenues, military supply chains, and financial institutions. These measures aim to disrupt Russia's war effort and access to international markets.

EBA Final Guidelines on Third-Country Branch Capital Endowment

The European Banking Authority (EBA) has published final guidelines on instruments that third-country branches can use to meet their capital endowment requirements under CRD IV. These guidelines clarify which debt securities and other instruments are acceptable and set operational conditions for their use.

UK Sanctions Update: Russia and Belarus

The UK government has amended its sanctions list under the Russia regime, with one entity remaining subject to an asset freeze and another being removed. Additionally, new guidance on licences for Belarus trade sanctions has been published, and an overview of 2025 Russia sanctions highlights potential future legislation targeting sanctions evasion.

Vertical Conduct Violation Fines Dropped Six-Fold in 2025

A report indicates that fines for vertical conduct violations globally dropped six-fold in 2025 compared to 2024, with the number of infringement decisions halved. Despite this overall decrease, the European Commission remained the most active enforcer, focusing on the consumer and retail sectors, and resale price maintenance continued to be a key area of scrutiny.