PTPolicyTraderThe policy behind the trade.
Trade policy, commodities, and sustainability across the Indo-Pacific
Dgft·In·
India’s DGFT has launched an online module on the Trade Connect Platform for issuing Certificates of Origin (CoO) for Agarwood. This digital system streamlines the CoO issuance process for this regulated commodity. Agarwood is a CITES-listed species subject to export controls and documentation requirements.
Wto·Int·
At the DSB meeting on 22 May 2026, China requested establishment of a dispute panel to review Indian measures restricting imports of solar cells, solar modules, and information technology goods. The DSB Chair also addressed ongoing WTO dispute settlement reform discussions.
Mofcom·Cn·
China’s Ministry of Commerce and four other departments announced adjustments to the management catalog governing exports of precursor chemicals (易制毒化学品) to specific countries and regions. The notice updates the list of controlled substances subject to export licensing requirements for designated destinations.
Doc India·In·
India and Ethiopia signed a bilateral accession protocol in Geneva as part of Ethiopia’s WTO membership process. This represents a specific market access agreement concluded within the WTO accession framework. The signing advances Ethiopia’s path toward full WTO membership.
Seco·Ch·
Switzerland’s Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research expanded its sanctions lists targeting Russia and Belarus on 22 May 2026, aligning with the EU’s 20th sanctions package. The measures took effect at 11pm the same day.
Dg Trade·Eu·
The European Commission welcomed a political agreement between the European Parliament and Council on two Regulations to eliminate tariffs on all US industrial goods and grant preferential market access for certain US agricultural and seafood products. This implements the EU-US trade deal framework. The agreement covers both tariff elimination and agricultural/seafood access provisions.
Kemendag·Indonesia·
Indonesian Trade Minister Budi Santoso presented the Indonesia-Canada CEPA to the DPR Commission VI, stating the agreement will strengthen Indonesian products’ market access to Canada and support distribution into the broader North American market. The discussion occurred amid rising global geopolitical uncertainty and trade protectionism. The minister expressed hope the cooperation framework would boost Indonesian […]
Wto·Int·
The WTO Council for Trade in Goods met on 20-21 May 2026, with members addressing 38 specific trade concerns, nine of which were raised for the first time. Delegations discussed growing strain on the rules-based trading system amid escalating trade tensions and compliance challenges. The meeting was chaired by Ambassador Erwin Bollinger of Switzerland.
Kemendag·Indonesia·
Trade Minister Budi Santoso held a working meeting with Parliamentary Commission VI regarding the ratification plan for the Indonesia-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The session focused on legislative approval of the bilateral trade pact.
Ustr·United States·
USTR has triggered the USMCA Rapid Response Labor Mechanism (RRM) against Faurecia Sistemas Automotrices de Mexico in Silao, Guanajuato, alleging denial of workers’ rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining. This is a formal trade enforcement action under the labor chapter of USMCA. The RRM allows for expedited review and potential trade remedies if […]