Trade & Tariffs

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Europe’s Push to Tap $105 Billion in Frozen Russian Funds Sparks Warning of “Act of War” from Moscow

The EU’s proposal to unlock seized Russian assets for Ukraine’s financing needs triggers sharp retaliation threats and intensifies geopolitical tensions

Macron and Xi Chart New Course for China France Relations Amid Trade Tensions and Ukraine Diplomacy

From market access and investment deals to the Ukraine war and symbolic panda diplomacy, the two leaders seek to reset ties during a high-stakes visit to Beijing

Bessent Predicts Trump Team Can Reinstate Tariffs Regardless of Supreme Court Ruling

Treasury secretary says long-standing trade statutes give the president broad authority to rebuild the full tariff framework even if current legal challenges succeed

Tariff Relief Transforms Outlook for Hyundai and GM in the United States

A sharp reduction in U.S. import duties on South Korean vehicles resets cost pressures and positions both automakers for stronger profitability in 2026.

Elon Musk Backs High-Skill Immigration and Warns Tariffs Are Warping Global Markets

In a wide-ranging interview, the Tesla chief criticizes U.S. protectionism, defends the H-1B program and argues that restricting foreign talent would weaken American innovation.

Costco Takes Legal Action to Recover Tariff Payments Ahead of Key Supreme Court Decision

The retailer moves to secure potential refunds and halt further tariff collections as the nation awaits a landmark ruling on the legality of Trump-era emergency trade measures.

Elon Musk Defends H1-B Talent and Warns Tariffs Are Damaging Global Competition

In a candid conversation with entrepreneur Nikhil Kamath, Musk argues that America’s innovation pipeline depends on global talent and that escalating tariffs risk destabilizing markets.

U.S. Freight Market Enters a Structural Downturn as Chinese Imports Collapse

Ports, trucking, and retailers brace for a deep goods recession driven by tariffs, weak demand, and shifting consumer behavior

Netherlands Ends State Control Over Chinese-Owned Nexperia

Move clears the path for global chip exports and eases tensions with Beijing

Switzerland’s U.S. Trade Deal Sparks Debate Over Economic Gains and Sovereignty

Tariffs cut and $200 billion in promised investment highlight opportunities, while critics warn of concessions and potential risks to domestic industries

India’s Soaring Trade Gap Reaches New Peak as Festive Gold Buying Drives Record October Deficit

A surge in gold imports, softening U.S. demand, and tariff pressures push India’s merchandise deficit to the highest level ever recorded.

U.S. Announces Tariff Relief on Select Imports from Argentina, Ecuador, Guatemala and El Salvador

The framework agreements aim to cut duties on key foods like coffee and bananas while opening Latin American markets to more U.S. exports under the second Trump administration’s trade strategy.

Disney Set to Reveal Q4 Results as Investors Eye Streaming and Media Business

As Disney prepares to release its fiscal fourth-quarter earnings before the bell, Wall Street is zeroing in on the future of its streaming empire and traditional TV operations.

American Farmers Battle to Revive Soybean Exports to China

Despite ongoing trade tensions, U.S. growers seek to rebuild lost ground in their most vital overseas market.

Fragile Peace in Progress as U.S.–China Trade Truce Gains Momentum

Tariff rollbacks and export relaxations mark a cautious thaw between Washington and Beijing, but deep-rooted strategic rivalry keeps tensions simmering.

U.S. Soybean Farmers Race to Reclaim China Market Amid Lingering Trade Turbulence

With China committing to a 25 million-ton annual purchase plan, Midwestern growers scramble to regain footing after nearly a year without exports to their largest overseas buyer.

China Rolls Back Key Export Curbs on Critical Minerals to U.S.

In a major shift, Beijing suspends controls on rare earths and dual-use materials for one year, signalling a thaw in U.S.–China trade tensions.

Trump Signals India Is Nearing End of Russian Oil Imports, Hints at Major Visit in 2026

Amid revived U.S.–India trade talks and looming tariff relief, the U.S. President says New Delhi has “largely stopped” buying Russian crude — and he’s ready to visit if invited.

Supreme Court Questions Legality of Trump’s Global Tariffs

In a tense hearing, justices from both sides of the political spectrum cast doubt on the former president’s sweeping trade measures, raising questions about executive power, congressional authority, and billions in potential refunds.

Trump-Era Tariffs Could Cost Holiday Shoppers $40 Billion, Pushing Prices Higher

New analysis shows average Americans could spend $132 more this holiday season due to tariffs on imported goods, while retailers absorb billions in added costs.

Trump and Xi Strike Hopeful Tone in South Korea Meeting, Pledge to Strengthen U.S.-China Partnership

In their first face-to-face meeting since Trump’s second term began, both leaders called for cooperation and stability amid escalating trade tensions, technology disputes, and global market uncertainty.

Trump Slashes Fentanyl Tariffs to 10% as U.S. and China Strike Rare Earth Supply Deal

The one-year agreement marks a turning point in U.S.-China relations, easing trade tensions and signaling renewed cooperation on critical minerals and drug control.

China Resumes U.S. Soybean Purchases Ahead of Trump–Xi Summit

Beijing’s state grain giant COFCO secures 180,000 tons amid renewed hopes for trade thaw and agricultural cooperation

Trump Signals Possible Cut to Fentanyl-Related Tariffs on China, Plans Talks on Agriculture with Xi at Summit

Ahead of his summit in South Korea, President Trump indicates he will seek tariff relief tied to China’s assistance on fentanyl-precursor chemicals, while also raising issues important to U.S. farmers and discussing a wide range of trade and tech tensions with President Xi Jinping.

Trump Imposes Additional 10% Tariff on Canada Amid Controversial Reagan Trade Ad

Tensions flare as the U.S. President reacts to a Canadian TV ad featuring Ronald Reagan, halting trade talks and raising stakes ahead of Supreme Court hearings on tariff powers.

UK’s Cheese and Meat Ban Sparks Tensions with EU, Raising Questions Over Trade and Tourism

Nearly six months after its introduction, the UK’s ban on personal imports of EU dairy and meat products continues to affect businesses and travelers, even though Foot and Mouth Disease outbreaks in Europe have been contained.

Brazil and U.S. Move to Resolve Tariff Tensions After Trump-Lula Meeting in Malaysia

Talks between the two largest economies in the Americas signal a possible end to steep tariff hikes and strained trade ties, as both nations push for fairer terms and renewed cooperation.

Trump Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent Says He ‘Felt the Pain’ of China’s Boycott as a Soybean Farmer

Bessent reveals personal ties to U.S. agriculture while discussing trade tensions with China and signals optimism for a breakthrough deal.

Trump Ends U.S.-Canada Trade Talks Over Controversial Reagan-Themed Ad

Ontario’s $75 million campaign featuring Ronald Reagan’s anti-tariff message sparks backlash from Trump and the Reagan Foundation

Trump’s Uneasy Ties With the EU May Be Thawing — Thanks to Russia’s War in Ukraine

After months of tariff tensions and diplomatic rifts, Washington and Brussels are finding new unity in their shared effort to pressure Moscow and stabilize global trade.

U.S. Sanctions on Russian Oil Giants Set to Disrupt Asia’s Energy Lifeline

China and India brace for supply and price shocks as Washington targets Rosneft and Lukoil, tightening pressure on Moscow’s wartime finances.

Trump Halts All U.S.–Canada Trade Talks After Controversial Reagan Tariff Ad Sparks Diplomatic Rift

A $75 million Canadian ad campaign featuring a manipulated Ronald Reagan speech has ignited fresh tensions between Washington and Ottawa, leading President Trump to suspend ongoing trade negotiations.

Japan’s Exports Rebound on Strong Asian Demand, But Shipments to the U.S. Continue to Slide

Despite a new trade agreement with Washington, Japan’s exports to the U.S. plummeted over 13% in September, highlighting uneven recovery amid shifting global trade dynamics.

Trump’s 100% Movie Tariff Threat Could Devastate the U.K.’s Fragile Film Industry

As the U.S. eyes sweeping import duties on foreign films, Britain’s movie sector — already battling weak box office returns and shrinking budgets — braces for another major hit.

Trump’s Latest Trade Clash with China Highlights Risks for Copper Market Amid AI-Driven Demand Surge

Rising demand from artificial intelligence and European defense expansion underscores the need for diversified copper supply chains as trade tensions flare.

China Claims U.S. Is Stoking Fear Over Rare Earth Export Rules, Signals Willingness to Talk

Beijing rejects what it calls U.S.-led “panic,” defends export curbs as national security, and leaves door open for negotiations amid rising trade tensions

U.S. Stands Firm on China Policy Despite Market Turbulence

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent dismisses market volatility concerns, asserting that trade strategy with Beijing is driven by long-term U.S. economic interests, not short-term stock performance.

Trump Claims Modi Vowed to End Russian Oil Imports, But Implementation Timeline Remains Unclear

India’s energy strategy faces global scrutiny as Washington pushes New Delhi to curb Russian crude purchases

U.S. Treasury Chief Accuses China of “Dragging the World Down” Amid Escalating Economic Standoff

Scott Bessent warns that Beijing’s export restrictions on key tech minerals could backfire, deepening China’s own downturn while rattling global markets.

China Sanctions Five U.S. Subsidiaries of Hanwha Ocean Amid Escalating Maritime Dispute

The move deepens U.S.–China tensions as both sides exchange trade restrictions on shipping and maritime industries, sending Hanwha Ocean shares tumbling over 8%.

Philippines Claims Chinese Ship Rams Local Vessel Near Disputed Thitu Island Amid Rising Tensions

Manila reports water cannon attack and minor collision as Chinese maritime forces confront Filipino vessels in contested South China Sea

China’s September Trade Data Surprises Markets as Exports Rebound and Imports Surge

Strong export growth and the fastest import increase since April highlight China’s resilient trade amid rising U.S.-China tensions

China’s Stock Rally Faces Pressure as U.S.-China Trade Tensions Resurface

Investor optimism tested after months of gains as new tariff threats and export controls raise fears of a renewed trade conflict

WTO Boosts 2025 Global Trade Forecast to 2.4% Amid AI Surge, Warns of Slowdown in 2026

Strong first-half growth driven by AI-related goods and pre-tariff imports lifts trade outlook this year, but rising tariffs and economic cooling cloud next year’s prospects.

Taiwan Pushes Back on U.S. ’50-50′ Chip Plan, Says Tariff Cuts Remain Top Priority

Taipei rejects Washington’s call to split semiconductor production, emphasizing tariff relief and fairer trade as the real agenda.

EU Launches World’s First Carbon Border Tax, Reshaping the Future of Global Trade

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism will impose new costs on imports like steel and cement, sparking global backlash while testing Europe’s climate leadership

Trump Imposes 10% Tariff on Lumber and Steep Duties on Wooden Products

U.S. aims to boost domestic industry as tariffs on kitchen cabinets, vanities, and furniture to rise in 2026

U.S. Pharma Tariffs Leave Indian Generic Drugmakers Largely Unscathed, But Investor Anxiety Rises

While Trump’s 100% tariffs target branded drugs, India’s generic-focused pharmaceutical sector faces minimal impact amid broader trade concerns.

Trump Imposes 25% Tariffs on Imported Heavy Trucks, Targets Broader Range of Goods

New tariffs on trucks, furniture, kitchen cabinets, and pharmaceuticals aim to protect U.S. manufacturing and national security

Trump Orders 100% Tariff on Imported Branded Drugs Unless Firms Build U.S. Plants

Pharma industry warns of higher prices, supply chain risks, and costly reshoring hurdles

European Healthcare Stocks Edge Higher Despite Trump’s 100% Tariff on U.S. Medicine Imports

Markets weigh new trade barriers, sector resilience, and broader economic signals across Europe

European Medtech Stocks Tumble as U.S. Launches Probe Into Medical Device Imports

Trump administration investigation sparks tariff fears, dragging down Siemens Healthineers, Philips, and Convatec, while retail stocks buck the trend.

Swiss Economy Braces for Heavy Blow as U.S. Tariffs Weigh on Growth

The Swiss National Bank warns that steep American tariffs threaten exports, investment, and long-term growth, as hopes for a trade deal with Washington remain uncertain.

What Britain Hopes to Achieve from Trump’s Second State Visit

Beyond multi-billion-dollar business deals, the U.K. aims to solidify trade commitments, reduce tariffs, and boost investor confidence

Japan’s Export Slump Eases in August as Asian Demand Rebounds

Stronger shipments to Asia and Europe help offset steep U.S. declines, signaling resilience amid tariffs and global demand uncertainty

China Tightens Rare Earth Grip, Forcing European Firms to Count Million-Euro Losses

As Beijing curbs rare earth exports, European companies face mounting costs, unstable supply chains, and growing uncertainty over future access

Britain Bets on Trump: Why the UK Is Banking on a Controversial Ally to Weather Its Storm

As Prime Minister Keir Starmer grapples with political turmoil and plunging approval ratings, Donald Trump’s high-profile state visit could be the lifeline Britain needs to reset trade ties and global confidence.

Trump Pushes NATO for Unified Action, Threatens Major Sanctions on Russia

Former President urges allies to halt Russian oil purchases and consider steep tariffs on China to weaken Moscow’s war effort in Ukraine

U.S. and China Revive Madrid Trade Talks as TikTok Deadline Nears

High-stakes negotiations aim to ease tariffs, resolve tech disputes, and avert a looming ban on TikTok in the U.S.

U.S. Threatens Action Over Bolsonaro’s 27-Year Sentence in Brazil

Washington Calls Verdict a ‘Witch Hunt’ as Tariff Tensions and Political Fallout Escalate

U.S. and Japan Strike Historic $550 Billion Investment Deal

Washington and Tokyo to Split Profits Until Japan Recoups Its Investment, Then Shift to 90/10 in America’s Favor

China Warns Mexico Over Planned 50% Car Tariffs

Beijing threatens countermeasures as Mexico targets Asia-made vehicles, putting $52 billion in trade ties at risk

Trump and Modi Strike a Hopeful Note on U.S.-India Trade Talks

Despite tensions over tariffs and Russian oil imports, both leaders stress optimism for a breakthrough in negotiations

Trump Urges EU to Levy 100% Tariffs on China and India Over Russian Oil Purchases

Washington signals readiness to match European measures as pressure grows on Moscow amid stalled Ukraine peace talks

Record Number of U.S. Firms Shift Investments Away From China

Southeast Asia emerges as the top destination as tariffs, competition, and rising uncertainty reshape global supply chains

Trump Joins Rolex CEO at U.S. Open Despite New 39% Tariff on Swiss Watches

The president attended the men’s singles final with top White House officials just weeks after imposing steep tariffs on Switzerland, signaling complex ties between trade policy and corporate engagement.

Massive Immigration Raid Hits Hyundai-LG Georgia Plant, 475 Workers Arrested

Federal authorities target unauthorized employment at the $7.6 billion battery and auto facility, prompting South Korea to work on returning over 300 of its nationals.

Supreme Court Showdown Looms Over Trump Tariffs, Potential $1 Trillion Refund Bill at Stake

Lower court rulings put Trump-era levies in jeopardy, raising fears of massive refunds to importers and economic disruption

Trump Seals Japan Trade Deal with 15% Tariffs as Ishiba Battles Rising Party Dissent

A sweeping U.S.-Japan trade agreement introduces new tariffs and investment pledges, reshaping global supply chains while Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba faces political turbulence at home.

Xi Jinping Warns of ‘Global Crossroads’ as Trump Accuses Beijing of Plotting Against U.S.

At a grand military parade marking the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end, Xi calls for “peace or war, dialogue or confrontation,” while Trump fires back with accusations of Chinese conspiracy and appeals to U.S. wartime legacy.

Court Ruling Challenges Trump-Era Tariffs, Leaving Shippers and Businesses in Limbo

Federal appeals court decision could trigger billions in refunds while supply chains await final outcomes

Supreme Court May Rule Trump Tariffs Illegal, but Washington Still Has Tools to Keep Them Alive

Legal battles mount, but the U.S. Treasury hints at fallback options to preserve Trump’s trade measures

Trump Blasts India-U.S. Trade Ties as ‘One-Sided Disaster’ Amid Modi’s China Outreach

Washington-Beijing-New Delhi tensions rise as tariffs, Russian oil, and failed trade talks dominate relations

Modi and Xi Emphasize Partnership Over Rivalry Amid Growing Trade and Geopolitical Challenges

India and China signal closer cooperation on trade, border stability, and regional security during Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.

Trump Trade Adviser Slams Appeals Court Tariff Ruling as “Partisan Injustice”

White House trade adviser criticizes the court’s decision on tariffs, calling it politically biased and undermining U.S. trade policy.

U.S. Appeals Court Strikes Down Key Trump Tariffs, Adding Fresh Trade Uncertainty

Ruling casts doubt on billions in duties targeting China, Canada, and Mexico, fueling concerns over market volatility and trade policy stability.

Japan’s Top Trade Negotiator Cancels U.S. Trip Amid Tariff and Investment Disputes

Tokyo seeks resolution on reciprocal tariffs and confirmation of $550 billion investment package

EU Moves to Lift Tariffs on U.S. Industrial Goods, Unlocking Retroactive Cuts for Autos

Proposal aims to stabilize transatlantic trade and secure reciprocal tariff relief from Washington

European Postal Services Halt Some U.S. Shipments Ahead of Global “De Minimis” Rule End

New U.S. trade regulations on low-value imports force carriers across Europe to pause shipments, disrupting small-scale e-commerce and international postal flows.

Tariffs Could Skew Retail Profitability as Accounting Practices Mask True Costs

How the retail inventory method may temporarily overstate margins for Walmart, Target, Home Depot, and other U.S. retailers facing rising import costs.

U.S. Trade Delegation Cancels India Visit Amid Escalating Tariff Dispute

Trump’s 50% cumulative tariff on Indian exports adds new strain as both nations struggle to reset trade talks

Spain’s Bold Defense Stance Sparks Rising Tensions with Trump Administration

Madrid’s Strategic Shift in Defense and Foreign Policy Tests U.S.-Spain Relations Amid NATO Pressure and Growing China Ties

Trump’s Global Energy Export Wins Clash with U.S. Shipbuilding Realities

Ambitious LNG export targets face major obstacles amid a shrinking domestic shipbuilding industry and stringent new U.S. trade mandates

Why India Faces Heavy U.S. Tariffs Despite Russian Crude Not Being Sanctioned

Understanding the complexities behind Washington’s increased tariffs on India amid growing Russian oil imports and global energy market pressures

Trump Threatens 100% Tariff on Chip Imports Unless Companies Manufacture in U.S.

Apple, Nvidia, TSMC among firms expanding domestic operations as semiconductor policy heats up

South Korea’s Finance and Trade Chiefs to Meet U.S. Counterparts for High-Stakes Tariff Talks

Newly appointed South Korean officials to engage in 2+2 trade talks in Washington, as both nations race to resolve tariff disputes ahead of Trump’s looming August 1 deadline.

McCormick Strategizes Around Tariff Risks to Agricultural Sourcing

With 90% of U.S. products made domestically but ingredients sourced globally, McCormick sharpens focus on mitigating tariff impact while maintaining strong consumer demand

China’s Premier Warns Against Politicizing Global Trade Amid Rising Tensions

At the World Economic Forum in Tianjin, Premier Li Qiang urges global leaders to preserve economic cooperation and avoid turning trade into a tool for political or security leverage.

European Markets Rally After Trump Postpones 50% Tariff Threat on EU

Zealand Pharma soars 10% as investor sentiment rebounds across key sectors

Trade Turbulence Delayed, Not Dismissed: Trump’s EU Tariff Pause Signals More Tensions Ahead

Despite pushing back a proposed 50% tariff on EU imports to July 9, President Trump’s combative trade rhetoric suggests investors and policymakers should prepare for continued volatility.

Europe Strategically Adapts to Trump’s Tariff Threats

Countries and corporations across the EU take proactive steps in response to looming U.S. tariff hikes, even as delays offer temporary relief.

How U.S. Companies Are Legally Dodging Tariffs Using a 36-Year-Old Loophole

The “First Sale Rule” quietly helps importers cut duty costs by up to 50%, and more companies are waking up to its power.

Diamond Dreams in Jeopardy: How Tariffs and Lab-Grown Rivals Are Shaking the Sparkle Off the Industry

As U.S. tariffs loom and lab-grown diamonds take market share, the natural diamond industry faces one of its toughest challenges yet.

South Korea’s Presidential Frontrunner Lee Jae-myung Urges Flexibility in U.S. Tariff Talks Timeline

Lee pushes for a pragmatic, mutually beneficial trade deal with Washington, warning against rushed diplomacy ahead of the July 8 deadline.

Trump Postpones 50% Tariffs on EU Imports Until July 9 Following EU Request

U.S. President Donald Trump extends deadline after talks with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, aiming to give negotiators time to finalize a potential trade agreement.

Williams-Sonoma CEO on Tackling Tariff Pressures: “Resilience and Adaptability Are Key”

Despite margin pressure from tariffs, the home furnishings giant leans into U.S. manufacturing and diversified sourcing to stay competitive.

U.S. and China Reignite Diplomatic Dialogue Amid Lingering Trade Tensions

Fresh high-level call marks a cautious step forward in U.S.-China relations after Geneva summit, but strategic frictions remain.

Trump’s Tax Reform Spurs Temporary Economic Growth—but Experts Warn of Long-Term Fiscal Risks

While the tax cuts promise short-term economic momentum, mounting deficits and investor caution cast a shadow over future stability.

Japan’s Exports to the U.S. Decline for the First Time in 2024 Amid Tariff Pressures

Trade tensions, led by steep U.S. tariffs on autos and metals, drag Japan’s shipments down while economic growth falters.

U.S.-China Tariff Relief Eases Holiday Supply Concerns: Will Retailers Meet Christmas Demand?

Temporary Tariff Reduction Offers Retailers a Chance to Stock Up for the Holiday Season Amid Supply Chain Challenges

Junia Wells

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August 3, 2025