Global trade and customs developments continue to shape the business landscape. From US tariff decisions to evolving trade agreements and regulatory updates, here are the key highlights of January 2026
US Supreme Court decision delay on Trump's emergency tariffs. The US Supreme Court has delayed its decision regarding the legality of the emergency tariffs imposed under the Trump administration.
US announces new tariffs amid Greenland dispute. In response to the Greenland sovereignty dispute, the US planned to raise tariffs from 10% to 25% in 2026 on several countries over the Greenland dispute. These tariffs are now suspended pending a NATO Arctic security agreement, leading the EU to suspend ratification of the EU-US Trade Deal.
New US tariffs targeting Iran's trading partners and advanced semiconductors. In mid-January, the US imposed a 25% tariff on goods from countries that conduct business with Iran, as well as on certain advanced semiconductors.
Mercosur agreement: delay in ratification process. On 21 January the European Parliament referred the EU-Mercosur trade agreement to the Court of Justice of the European Union for a legal opinion, delaying its ratification.
Safeguard investigations: Madagascar and Türkiye notify the WTO. Madagascar and Türkiye have initiated safeguard investigations, which may result in the imposition of temporary duties or quotas.
Flemish Arms Trade Decree: The Flemish government updated the Arms Trade Decree with clearer regulations, a tiered licensing system and enhanced controls on end-use.
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