Trade Updates
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Canada Invests $75M in AgriMarketing Program to Expand Agricultural Exports
Canada launches two Market Diversification streams under the AgriMarketing Program, with $75 million over five years to help industry organizations and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises reach new global markets. Priority sectors include canola, pulses, pork, fish, and seafood. Applications open Feb. 13, 2026, with full details on the program website.
U.S. and Bangladesh Reach Reciprocal Trade Agreement
The U.S. and Bangladesh finalized a Reciprocal Trade Agreement to expand bilateral trade. Bangladesh lowers duties on U.S. goods, while the U.S. applies a 19% reciprocal tariff, with selected products eligible for zero tariffs. The deal addresses non-tariff barriers, labor, environment, digital trade, and includes $3.5B in agriculture and $15B in energy deals.
U.S. and India Reach Framework for Interim Trade Agreement (Updated)
The U.S. will apply an 18% reciprocal tariff on select Indian goods, while India reduces or eliminates duties on U.S. industrial and agricultural products. On February. 9, 2026, a Fact Sheet confirmed the removal of the additional 25% tariff on Indian imports tied to Russian oil, with CBP guidance issued for correcting entries.
CBSA Announces Changes to U.S. Surtax Remission Order (Updated)
Canada has updated the U.S. Surtax Remission Order, expanding relief for steel, aluminum, motor vehicle, and aerospace goods. As of Dec. 24, 2025, remission covers eligible entities in manufacturing, processing, packaging, agriculture, health care, public safety, and national security. The February 2026 amendment further clarifies schedules, deadlines, and eligibility for all importers.
U.S. Ends De Minimis Exemption (GHY Added as a Qualified Party)
Effective August 29, 2025, the U.S. ended its longstanding de minimis duty exemption for most low-value imports, requiring formal customs entries. CBP updates its list of qualified parties to collect duties on international mail shipments. In January 2026, GHY eBiz was added, providing an integrated solution for compliant, cost-efficient eCommerce clearance.
Trump Orders Tariffs on Countries Trading with Iran
On February 6, 2026, Trump signed a proclamation to expand U.S.' beef tariff-rate quota by 80,000 metric tons, allocating all additional lean beef trimmings to Argentina. This move addresses domestic shortages caused by drought, wildfires, disease restrictions, and declining cattle herds, ensuring sufficient ground beef supply at in-quota duty rates.
Trump Signs Proclamation to Import More Beef from Argentina
On February 6, 2026, Trump signed a proclamation to expand U.S.' beef tariff-rate quota by 80,000 metric tons, allocating all additional lean beef trimmings to Argentina. This move addresses domestic shortages caused by drought, wildfires, disease restrictions, and declining cattle herds, ensuring sufficient ground beef supply at in-quota duty rates.
U.S. Imposes 25% Tariff on India Imports in Response to Russian Oil (Lifted Feb. 7, 2026)
The U.S. lifted the 25% tariff on Indian imports on February 7, 2026, which was initially imposed on August 27, 2025, due to India’s continued Russian oil imports. The removal follows India’s commitments to halt Russian oil imports, boost U.S. energy purchases, and expand defense cooperation, signaling a shift in trade policy.
U.S. Reauthorizes AGOA, Haiti HOPE, and HELP Trade Programs
The U.S. reauthorized AGOA and Haiti HOPE/HELP programs through December 2026, restoring duty-free and quota benefits. Retroactive refunds are available for ad valorem duties paid during the temporary lapse. Effective February, importers can resume preferential filings. Refund and protest deadlines are August 2, 2026.
U.S. and Argentina Agree on Reciprocal Trade and Investment Framework (Updated)
The U.S. and Argentina agreed on a framework to expand trade, investment, and economic partnership, covering tariffs, standards, IP, agriculture, labor, environment, and digital trade. Additional tariffs on Argentine goods are capped at 10% above MFN rates. The U.S–Argentina Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment (ARTI) was formally signed on Feb 5, 2026.
Section 232 Tariffs on Heavy/Medium-Duty Vehicles (U.S. Content Procedures for USMCA-Eligible Imports)
On October 17, 2025, President Trump imposed Section 232 tariffs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, certain truck parts, and buses to support U.S. industry and supply chains. Tariffs took effect November 1, 2025, with CBP providing filing guidance. On February 2, 2026, USMCA procedures allowed tariffs to apply only to non-U.S. content.
Canada Announces New Preliminary Trade Agreement with China (Updated)
Following Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Beijing, Canada agreed to expanded trade and investment measures with China. Key highlights include lower tariffs on canola and seafood, Chinese EV imports at 6.1% tariff, and joint investment in clean energy, technology, manufacturing, and agri-food, supporting exports, jobs, and stronger economic ties. A backgrounder has been made available.
Additional Guidance on MMPA Seafood Import Rules and COA Filings
NOAA clarified seafood import restrictions under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, effective Jan. 1, 2026. Importers must ensure covered fish and fish products have a signed COA, complete required data, and file electronically through CBP’s ACE system.
U.S. Creates Tariff Process for Countries Supplying Oil to Cuba
Effective January 30, 2026, the United States established a tariff process targeting countries that directly or indirectly supply oil to Cuba. The measure follows an emergency declaration and authorizes U.S. agencies to identify suppliers, set tariff rates, issue guidance, and adjust actions based on foreign policy and national security considerations.
New EU Phytosanitary Requirements for Oak and Chestnut Wood Exports
The EU will implement new phytosanitary rules for oak and chestnut wood from regions affected by the two-lined chestnut borer, including Canada and the U.S., starting March–April 2026. The measures specify clear and processing and origin requirements for solid wood and wood chips to meet EU market entry standards.
CBP Adjusts Customs User Fees for FY 2026 (Reminder on Broker Permit Deadline)
Effective October 1, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) increases FY 2026 customs user fees due to inflation. The annual Customs Broker permit fee of $185.38 must be paid by January 30, 2026 through the eCBP portal. Missing the deadline will result in automatic permit revocation. Guides and FAQs are available online.
CBP Revamps Forced Labor Website and Updates UFLPA Dashboard
CBP updated its Forced Labor website and UFLPA Enforcement Statistics Dashboard for 2026. The dashboard offers granular shipment data, interactive filters, and visualizations to help trade stakeholders track enforcement actions and maintain compliance. Previous dashboard data is archived, and additional insights are available via the CBP Data Portal.
Forced Labor Portal Now Live (Recorded Webinar Available Soon)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched the Forced Labor Portal on January 21, 2026. Importers must use it for Withhold Release Orders, Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act reviews, and CAATSA exception requests. CBP provides webinars, a quick guide, and an instructional video to help users submit review requests efficiently.
Reminder on Mercury Reporting Requirements for 2025 Activities
Manufacturers, importers, and certain exporters of mercury-containing products must report 2025 activities by March 31, 2026, under Canada’s Products Containing Mercury Regulations. The 2025 amendments introduce revised exemptions, lower mercury limits, export reporting, and alignment with US EPA cycles. Reports must be submitted through ECCC’s SWIM system.
U.S. and Taiwan Reach Trade Deal
The U.S. and Taiwan reached a semiconductor trade deal capping reciprocal tariffs at 15% for most goods and zero percent for pharmaceuticals, aircraft components, and select natural resources. Section 232 incentives favor Taiwanese firms building U.S. semiconductor facilities, supporting domestic manufacturing and supply chain resilience.
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