Mexican lawmakers recently approved a package of tariffs, impacting numerous products, particularly those from China, with the levies set to take effect January 1, 2026. These tariffs, which can reach up to 50%, target goods such as metals, cars, and appliances and affect countries without free trade agreements with Mexico. This action occurs amid negotiations with the US over potential import taxes threatened by former President Donald Trump. China has expressed concerns, with a spokesperson from Beijing’s commerce ministry stating that the tariffs would “substantially harm the interests of trading partners.”
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In response to the influx of low-cost imports, EU finance ministers have decided to implement a €3 tax on all small parcels entering the bloc beginning July 1, 2026. This decision follows the earlier agreement to eliminate duty exemptions for packages under €150, primarily from Chinese platforms. The temporary fixed fee aims to address unfair competition faced by European retailers and will remain in effect until a permanent import tax solution is established. With a staggering 4.6 billion small packages entering the EU last year, the majority originating from China, this move is a priority, especially for countries like France.
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The United States and Switzerland have finalized a trade agreement, as announced by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. Swiss duties will be reduced to 15%, and Swiss companies have committed to investing $200 billion in the U.S. by 2028. This deal will bring significant manufacturing, including pharmaceuticals and railway equipment, to the United States. Further details regarding the agreement will be available on the White House website.
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China imports no US soybeans in September for the first time in seven years, and it’s certainly a development that sparks a lot of conversation, doesn’t it? It’s hard not to think about the impact on American farmers, especially considering the potential economic ramifications and the history behind this situation.
Seven years ago, you might remember, was when these trends started to take root. Now, here we are again, and it’s a pretty stark illustration of how quickly things can change in the world of international trade. It’s hard to ignore that the farmers, many of whom come from states like Ohio, may be facing challenges.… Continue reading
This compilation meticulously catalogs every state, territory, and district within the United States, including the District of Columbia, along with a comprehensive list of U.S. Armed Forces locations globally. It also incorporates several international locations, specifically those in Canada and various U.S. territories. The final element of this list is its inclusion of Zip Codes.
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The Universal Postal Union (UPU) reports a dramatic decline in postal traffic to the U.S. following the end of a trade exemption rule. After August 29, 2025, the “de minimis” rule, which exempted small packages under $800 from tariffs, was suspended, leading to an 81% drop in traffic compared to the previous week. The UPU is actively developing a technical solution to restore mail flow. This move was initiated by the Trump administration, citing concerns about counterfeit goods, fentanyl, and the trade deficit.
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According to the Nikkei daily, Japan’s chief trade negotiator canceled a planned trip to Washington due to unresolved disagreements regarding rice imports. Japanese officials are reportedly dissatisfied with a U.S. presidential order that would mandate increased rice purchases from the United States and tariff reductions on agricultural goods. Although further administrative talks are needed, Akazawa anticipates a return visit to the U.S. before the Trump administration issues the executive order. Japan aims to address all outstanding issues before proceeding with the agreement’s implementation.
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Due to the impending expiration of the “de minimis” exemption, which previously allowed duty-free entry for packages under $800, several European postal services are suspending shipments to the United States. This action comes amidst confusion regarding new import duties and a lack of clarity on how they will be collected. Germany, Denmark, Sweden, and Italy have already halted shipments, with others like France and Austria following, expressing concerns about data requirements and the short timeframe to adapt to the changes. Postal services are seeking clarification from U.S. authorities, as the Trump administration moves forward with the duties, despite an insufficient system to collect them.
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The U.S. Alcohol Industry Is Reeling From Canada’s Booze Boycott is a situation that has clearly emerged in response to political tensions and trade disputes. This is not just about tariffs; it’s a direct consequence of a complex set of actions that have significantly impacted the American liquor and wine industries.
The initial response from Canada, specifically from its provinces, was to limit or halt purchases of American alcohol. Liquor stores and distribution networks swiftly removed U.S. brands from their shelves, opting instead to promote Canadian products. This immediate shift sent a clear message and disrupted established market dynamics.
The impact of this boycott has been felt across the industry, with significant drops in exports.… Continue reading
Trump says he will “substantially” raise tariffs on India over Russian oil purchases, a statement that immediately throws a wrench into the gears of international trade and diplomacy. The core issue seems to be India’s continued purchase of Russian oil, a move that has clearly ruffled some feathers in certain corners of the world. The response is quite direct: the threat of increased tariffs on Indian goods entering the United States, which could have significant economic repercussions for both nations.
This decision doesn’t exist in a vacuum. There’s a sense that the motivation isn’t purely based on a desire to punish India.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood