Trade Updates
- America First Trade Policy Announced
The newly established US administration has introduced the America First Trade Policy to advance trade and economic measures aligned with national interests. As part of the proposed policy changes, the Secretary of Commerce has been assigned to review Anti-Dumping and Countervailing Duty laws, with a particular focus on transnational subsidies, cost adjustments, affiliations, and the practice of “zeroing.” Additionally, the Secretary has been tasked with evaluating verification procedures to determine whether they effectively ensure compliance by foreign respondents and governments. The President has requested a comprehensive report from the Secretary by April 1, 2025.
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/america-first-trade-policy/
AI and Google
- China Retaliates with Tariff and Non-Tariff Measures Against U.S.
In response to recent U.S. trade actions, China has announced a series of tariff and non-tariff measures effective from February 10, 2025. A 15% tariff will be imposed on U.S. imports of coal and liquefied natural gas, while an additional 10% duty will apply to crude oil, agricultural machinery, tractors, large displacement vehicles, pickup trucks, electric wagons, agricultural trailers, and semi-trailers, covering 72 tariff lines.
Additionally, China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) has introduced immediate export controls on critical metals, including tellurium, tungsten, bismuth, indium, and molybdenum, which are essential for industrial, defense, solar cell manufacturing, and semiconductor applications. Further actions targeting U.S. companies are also expected.
Sources: https://www.whitecase.com/insight-alert/china-retaliates-tariffs-and-non-tariff-measures-response-trumps-additional-tariffs, https://www.exiger.com/perspectives/critical-minerals-export-controls/, AI and Google
- Canada Implements Retaliatory Measures
In response to U.S. trade actions, Canada has issued an Order imposing an additional 25% ad valorem duty on specified U.S.-origin goods under the designated tariff schedule. The duties took effect on February 4, 2025, except for goods that were already in transit to Canada on the day the Order came into force.
Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/, AI and Google
- U.S. Executive Order Imposes Additional Tariffs on Chinese Imports
On February 1, 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order imposing an additional 10% ad valorem duty on all imports from China. This tariff is in addition to the duties previously imposed under Section 301 in 2018. The additional duty applies to all goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouses for consumption on or after February 4, 2025.
The Order specifies that no drawback will be available for duties paid under this measure, and these imports will not qualify for duty-free de minimis treatment. However, a subsequent amendment allowed de minimis treatment to continue until adequate tariff collection systems are established.
Citing a national emergency, the President justified the action based on concerns over illicit drug inflows from China and its alleged support for transnational criminal organizations. The Order also warns that if China retaliates, the President may further increase tariffs or expand their scope to ensure the measure’s effectiveness.
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/, https://www.supplychaindive.com/
https://www.thetimes.com/, https://www.wsj.com/, AI and Google
- U.S. Executive Orders Imposing Tariffs on Imports from Mexico and Canada, and Subsequent Suspension
On February 1, 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order imposing a 25% ad valorem duty on all goods produced in Mexico. A similar order was issued for Canadian imports, imposing a 25% duty on all Canadian-origin goods, except for products related to energy or energy sources, which were subject to a 10% duty. These additional tariffs applied to goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouses on or after February 4, 2025, with exemptions for goods already in transit before February 1, 2025.
The Orders specified that no drawback would be available for duties paid under these measures, and such imports would not qualify for duty-free de minimis treatment. The President justified the tariffs by citing a national emergency due to the failure of Canada and Mexico to curb the influx of gang members, smugglers, human traffickers, and illicit drugs into the U.S.
However, on February 3, 2025, President Trump issued two additional Orders, stating that both countries had taken immediate cooperative steps to address illegal migration and the illicit drug crisis. As a result, the imposed duties on imports from Canada and Mexico were suspended until March 4, 2025, to allow time for assessing the effectiveness of these measures.
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/, https://www.dlapiper.com/, https://www.whitecase.com/, AI and Google
- China Seeks WTO Consultations Over U.S. Trade Measures
China has formally requested WTO dispute consultations with the U.S. in response to the additional tariffs imposed on Chinese-origin goods. China argues that these tariffs, along with restrictions on drawback availability and duty-free de minimis treatment, violate the U.S.’s obligations under the GATT.
China asserts that the measures fail to provide Chinese imports the same customs duty advantages granted to products from other WTO members. Additionally, China contends that the imposed tariffs exceed the bound rates agreed upon by the U.S. in its Schedule of Concessions and Commitments under the GATT
Source: https://www.reuters.com/, https://www.voanews.com/, https://www.reuters.com/, AI and Google
- India and U.S. Issue Joint Statement Following Prime Minister Modi’s Visit
On February 13, 2025, India and the U.S. released a joint statement reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with a focus on defense, trade, and technology cooperation.
The U.S. welcomed India’s recent tariff reductions on key American exports, including bourbon, motorcycles, ICT products, and metals, as well as improved market access for U.S. agricultural goods such as alfalfa hay and duck meat, along with medical devices. Both nations pledged to collaborate on boosting U.S. exports of industrial goods to India and increasing India’s exports of labor-intensive manufactured products to the U.S. Additionally, they announced plans to negotiate the first phase of a multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement by fall 2025.
Source: https://www.whitehouse.gov/, https://www.mea.gov.in/, AI and Google
- WTO Members Review China's Request for Panel on Türkiye’s Electric Vehicle Measures
At the Dispute Settlement Body meeting on January 27, 2025, WTO members considered China’s request for the establishment of a dispute panel regarding Türkiye’s measures on electric vehicles and certain other vehicle imports from China. China argued that Türkiye’s restrictions violate its WTO commitments.
Türkiye, however, defended its actions, stating that the measures were necessary to address challenges faced by its automotive industry, including anti-competitive practices, subsidies, and excess production capacity among Chinese manufacturers.
Source: https://www.wto.org/english/, https://www.reuters.com/, AI and Google
- U.S. and Vietnam Reach Agreement to Resolve Fish Fillets Dispute
On January 17, 2025, the U.S. and Vietnam jointly informed the Dispute Settlement Body of their decision to resolve the dispute over anti-dumping duties on Vietnamese fish fillet imports. Vietnam had challenged the U.S. measures, arguing they violated the Anti-Dumping Agreement, particularly regarding zeroing and the objective evaluation of evidence.
As part of the settlement, the U.S. has partially revoked the 2021 duty order on certain frozen fish fillets exported by Vinh Hoan Corporation. Additionally, the exporter will no longer be subject to administrative reviews after 2021. Source:
https://www.federalregister.gov/, https://www.fao.org/, https://www.wto.org/, https://vietnamnews.vn/, AI and Google
- China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement Comes into Effect
China and the Maldives have jointly announced the implementation of their Free Trade Agreement, effective January 1, 2025. The agreement aims to promote trade and investment by reducing barriers and facilitating business between the two nations.
Under the agreement, Chinese exports of ships, electrical equipment, and furniture are expected to gain benefits, while Maldivian aquatic products will enjoy tariff eliminations when exported to China.
Source: https://english.www.gov.cn/, https://www.bloominglobal.com/, https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/, AI and Google
- Kazakhstan Ratifies EAEU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement
Kazakhstan has officially ratified the EAEU-Singapore Free Trade Agreement, incorporating it into national law. With its implementation, Kazakhstan has reduced import duties on 40% of goods from Singapore, while Singapore has committed to eliminating duties on all imports from EAEU member states.
Source: https://astanatimes.com/, https://astanatimes.com/, https://regfollower.com/,https://kz.kursiv.media/en/, AI and Google
- Kenya and UAE Sign Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
Kenya and the United Arab Emirates have entered into a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) to enhance trade and investment between the two nations. Key Kenyan exports expected to benefit include meat products, pineapples, avocados, and mangoes, while the UAE is set to gain improved market access for petroleum, machinery, and chemicals.
In addition to trade in goods, the CEPA covers services, technological innovation, digital trade, and sustainability.
Source: https://www.africanews.com/, https://research.hktdc.com/en, https://www.cnbcafrica.com/, https://www.reuters.com/, AI and Google
- Revised China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement Takes Effect
The upgraded China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement came into force on December 31, 2024. With its implementation, both nations have strengthened trade cooperation by committing to expanded market access in the services and investment sectors. The revised agreement also introduces new provisions for digital trade.
Source: https://www.mti.gov.sg/, https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/, https://www.allenandgledhill.com/sg/, AI and Google
- Korea-Philippines Free Trade Agreement Comes into Effect
The Korea-Philippines Free Trade Agreement took effect on December 31, 2024. Under the agreement, duties have been eliminated on Korean exports of electric vehicles, automotive parts, and consumer goods, including stationery, processed foods, and home electronics. Additionally, the agreement promotes cooperation in smart farming, smart cities, and renewable energy sectors.
Source: https://www.dti.gov.ph/, https://regfollower.com/, https://www.gmanetwork.com/, https://www.philstar.com/, AI and Google
- India-EU Free Trade Agreement Negotiations Set to Resume
Indian and EU delegates recently held discussions to advance negotiations on the long-awaited India-EU Free Trade Agreement. India remains committed to addressing labor and climate change issues through international forums while firmly advocating for the protection of its dairy sector and small-scale farmers.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/, https://www.ft.com/. https://www.linkedin.com/, AI and Google
- UAE and Malaysia Sign Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
The United Arab Emirates and Malaysia have signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to strengthen bilateral trade and promote high-growth sectors. The agreement aims to reduce and eliminate tariffs, enhance trade facilitation, and improve market access for both countries
Source: https://www.reuters.com/, https://www.agbi.com/, https://www.moec.gov.ae/en/, AI and Google
- New Zealand and UAE Sign Free Trade Agreement
New Zealand and the United Arab Emirates have signed a free trade agreement, marking New Zealand's first such deal with a Gulf nation. The agreement is expected to double New Zealand’s exports over the next decade. Upon implementation, 98.5% of New Zealand’s exports will be duty-free, with this share rising to 99% within three years.
Source: https://www.beehive.govt.nz/, https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/, AI and Google
- Government Imposes Import Restrictions on Low Ash Metallurgical Coke
Following recommendations from the Directorate General of Trade Remedies, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade has implemented safeguard measures in the form of quantitative restrictions on imports of Low Ash Metallurgical Coke. These restrictions will be in effect for six months, from January 1, 2025, to June 30, 2025, and apply to imports from all sources except developing countries other than China and Colombia.
The measures will be monitored quarterly for compliance and will only be permitted through Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) ports.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/, www.dgft.gov.in, AI and Google
- EU Seeks WTO Consultation Over China’s Anti-Dumping Duties on Brandy Imports
The European Union has formally requested consultations with China under the WTO Dispute Settlement Understanding regarding the provisional anti-dumping duties imposed on brandy imports from the EU. These duties apply to spirits made from distilled wine in containers of less than 200 liters.
The EU contends that China’s investigation lacked an objective assessment based on positive evidence and failed to establish a causal link between the alleged imports and any threat of injury to the Chinese industry. Additionally, the EU alleges that the measures were introduced in retaliation for its anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese battery electric vehicles.
Source: https://www.wto.org/, https://ec.europa.eu/, https://www.reuters.com/, AI and Google
- WTO Panel Report Released on Panama’s Agricultural Import Measures
On December 5, 2024, the WTO Panel circulated its report on four import measures imposed by Panama on various agricultural products from Costa Rica, including fresh strawberries, dairy products, meat products, fresh pineapples, plantains, and bananas.
Costa Rica initiated the dispute on January 11, 2021, arguing that the measures violated the Agreement on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures. After reviewing each measure, the Panel concluded that they were inconsistent with Articles 2 and 5 of the Agreement, as they were not based on a legitimate human health risk assessment, were not applied solely to protect human life and health, and served as disguised trade restrictions with arbitrary and unjustifiable distinctions.
Source: https://www.wto.org/, https://www.worldtradelaw.net/, AI and Google
- South Korea and the Philippines Finalize Free Trade Agreement
South Korea and the Philippines have signed the Korea-Philippines Free Trade Agreement, which came into effect on December 31, 2024. The agreement provides for an immediate reduction in duties on South Korean automobiles, with tariffs on electric and hybrid vehicles set to be phased out over the next five years.
Under the agreement, South Korea will reduce or eliminate tariffs on 94.8% of Philippine exports, while the Philippines will grant duty-free access to 96.5% of South Korean products.
Source: https://www.fibre2fashion.com/, https://www.dti.gov.ph/, https://finder.tariffcommission.gov.ph/, AI and Google
The World Trade Organization (WTO) defines international trade as the exchange of goods and services across borders, regulating trade rules among nations to ensure fair, predictable, and efficient global trade. Its fundamental principles—non-discrimination (Most-Favoured Nation & National Treatment), transparency, reciprocity, and free competition—aim to lower trade barriers and facilitate dispute resolution.
While countries often advocate for free trade and market access, protecting domestic industries and addressing unfair pricing practices necessitate the use of trade remedies. WTO-compliant measures, including anti-dumping duties, countervailing duties, and safeguard measures, play a crucial role in shaping global trade dynamics, influencing both importers and exporters. As international trade laws become more harmonized under the WTO and regional agreements expand, India has reinforced its regulatory framework and established specialized authorities to ensure fairness and compliance in global trade.
International Trade Practices at WORISGO
At WORISGO, we specialize in navigating the complexities of international trade remedies, empowering exporters, importers and domestic industries to compete on a level playing field. Our expert team provides a comprehensive support our clients facing unfair trade practices, ensuring they receive the necessary protection under WTO agreements and national laws.
With a strong track record of success in multiple jurisdictions, we offer tailored solutions for domestic producers seeking relief from cheap and unfair imports, exporters and importers facing trade remedial investigations and industries navigating complex trade policies, non-tariff barriers, and competition laws. Our expertise extends to trade policy and compliance, non-tariff barriers and trade facilitation, competition law and anti-dumping, customs and foreign trade policy, free trade agreements (FTAs) and trade negotiations.
With our extensive experience and a deep understanding of global trade dynamics, we deliver strategic guidance and effective representation to help our clients thrive in the international marketplace.
