TRADE RESEARCH
What are we reading
MOST RECENT
4 Nov 2025
Is the US reshaping global trade to its advantage?
The United States has pursued a mix of tariffs, trade probes, and negotiated agreements to safeguard national interests and reshape global economic leverage. Section 232 tariffs target vehicles and buses, while a USTR investigation monitors China’s Phase One compliance. Trump’s Asia trade tour and agreements with Southeast Asian nations, alongside temporary US-China deals, reflect a strategic push for reciprocity. Tariff tracking shows historically high rates, with mixed economic effects. Critical minerals initiatives with Australia, Canada, and allies aim to reduce reliance on China. US payment of overdue WTO fees signals continued pragmatic engagement with global trade institutions. Check out what we’ve been reading.
21 Oct 2025
Rare earths and the US-China standoff kick off summit season
7 Oct 2025
Tariff carve-outs take shape
As the Trump administration builds tariff walls, exceptions and exclusions to the tariffs are becoming clear. What do these exclusions mean for consumers and companies who are bearing the tariff burden? Meanwhile, negotiations between the US and its trading partners continue, as the shock imposition of a US$100,000 fee on H-1B visas creates new tensions, and US tariffs on Africa and the end of the AGOA trade preferences program cause economic suffering in developing economies.
China’s critical minerals chokehold
The US and China came to a new agreement this week, with China standing down on export controls of critical minerals necessary to key US industries. The Trump administration raised tariffs on steel and aluminum and products made with them as the OECD and others predict economic slowdowns. The race for new sources of critical minerals and US abandonment of engagement in Africa are reshaping trade and geopolitics. Check out what we’ve been reading.
Two "deals" but little certainty
The US and China have agreed to roll back tariffs by 115% and suspend retaliatory measures for 90 days, pending a more permanent deal. An agreement was reached with the UK as well, which secured preferential access in sectors targeted by US tariffs. While these developments suggest willingness to negotiate, Trump’s continued push for unilateral "reciprocal" tariffs and sector-specific duties casts doubt on any return to consistent or rules-based trade. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is considering how to shift tactics toward the US and move on with trade rules and norms without it. Check out what we’ve been reading.