US trade policy agency driving negotiations, tariffs, and global commerce strategy
EU foreign ministers are weighing options to curb trade with Israeli settlements in the West Bank, with a debate reframed by reports of possible measures such as a ban, tariffs, or import licensing. While several member states have already restricted settlement trade, Brussels remains divided on unanimity vs. qualified majority for action. The discussion comes as the EU debates its response to ongoing settlement expansion and international-law concerns.
The Trump administration has proposed 10% tariffs on allies and 12.5% on others after reviewing 60 trading partners for enforcement gaps on forced-labor bans. Public comment and hearings are expected before any final decision, with the aim of restoring a level playing field for American workers.
The administration has announced a renewed tariff strategy, mirroring early second-term measures, while facing legal scrutiny over forced-labor rules and excess capacity. Tariffs are set to be pressed against several major partners as investigations proceed.
The United States has declined to renew the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement in its current form and has begun annual reviews instead. Washington has said it will continue talks with Mexico and Canada to address trade deficits and "shortcomings." The pact remains in force and will expire in 2036 unless countries agree changes.
Brazil's deforestation rate has fallen by half in Lula's first year back in office, with 1,295 sq km cleared from January to June, the lowest since 2016. Lula defers to his government on zero-deforestation targets while facing criticisms over oil exploration near the Amazon mouth and shifting U.S. tariffs amid a tight election race.