Trade policy news covering tariffs, trade agreements, import/export regulations, trade wars, and international commerce.
The Trump administration announced plans for a 10% tariff on the EU and Canada and a 12.5% tariff on other nations including China, citing forced labor practices. The EU called the move unjustified. These tariffs permanently replace temporary ones struck down by the Supreme Court in February.
China and the European Union criticized proposed US tariffs of up to 12.5% on imports from 60 economies over forced labor allegations. Australia also voiced opposition, with Prime Minister Albanese citing an 'ideological disagreement' and Trade Minister Farrell calling the tariffs 'unjustified'.
The Trump administration is resisting a court order to return $166 billion in illegally collected tariffs, seeking to shield Customs Commissioner Rodney S. Scott from testifying. The Supreme Court struck down the tariffs in February 2026, but the administration continues to fight refunds.
Brazilian President Lula said Brazil cannot 'accept treatment' after the US proposed 25% tariffs on certain Brazilian imports, expressing surprise as trade talks were ongoing. Lula stated Brazil still wants institutional relations but will seek other trade partners if needed. The US Trade Representative cited an investigation into alleged unfair trade practices.
Canadian PM Mark Carney stated proposed U.S. forced labour tariffs are expected, noting an exception for CUSMA-compliant goods. Canada supports the tariff's objective, citing its own anti-forced labor laws, and will introduce legislation to address forced and child labour.
US President Donald Trump's renewed tariff war is straining India's already fragile economy, with Trump also controlling India's access to Venezuelan and Russian oil. This adds pressure as India navigates the Iran war economic fallout.
This commentary argues that President Donald Trump is methodically rebuilding his tariff authority using Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, following legal setbacks. It contends that his new approach is more precise and durable, potentially leading to long-lasting tariffs on multiple trading partners.
Canada formally urged the U.S. and Mexico to extend the USMCA trade agreement by 16 years. Minister Dominic LeBlanc sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexico's Economy Secretary Marcelo Ebrard, who also backed the extension. The move comes as Trump revives talk of making Canada the 51st state.
Business groups raised concerns about the White House's latest proposal to reconstruct tariff barriers struck down by the Supreme Court in February. The International Chamber of Commerce warned the proposed Section 301 mechanism risks penalizing legitimate commerce. The duties will undergo public comment and bilateral talks before implementation.
Shares of Caterpillar and Deere rallied this week after the White House reduced tariffs on agricultural and industrial equipment. Investors see lower costs for manufacturers, while analysts note the move addresses political pressure from rising farm bankruptcies and rural electoral concerns.