The article addresses implementation of the Vietnam-Israel Free Trade Agreement (VIFTA) and practical guidance for Vietnamese exporters shipping goods to Israel via Ashdod Port amid Middle East instability. It covers the regulatory framework for VIFTA implementation and logistical/customs considerations for market access. The focus is on ensuring trade continuity under the FTA.
Topic Archives:Market Access
EU launches safeguard investigation on certain new hybrid vehicles
On 30 October 2026, the European Union notified the WTO Committee on Safeguards that it had initiated a safeguard investigation on imports of certain new hybrid vehicles. The notification was filed on the same day the investigation was launched.
USTR: US to Terminate Rwanda and South Africa from AGOA Trade Preference Program
President Trump notified Congress and the governments of Rwanda and South Africa of his intent to terminate their eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) effective January 1, 2027. Ambassador Greer issued a statement supporting the decision. The termination removes preferential tariff access previously granted to both countries under AGOA.
Entry into Force of the MERCOSUR-Singapore Free Trade Agreement
The MERCOSUR-Singapore Free Trade Agreement officially entered into force on 1 November 2026, as announced in a joint press release between Singapore and Argentina. This marks the implementation of a plurilateral FTA between Singapore and the MERCOSUR bloc. No further details are available from the snippet.
Mercosur-EFTA Agreement Opens New Opportunities for Brazilian Exports to Norway on November 1
The Mercosur-EFTA free trade agreement enters into force on November 1, 2026, creating new export opportunities for Brazil in Norway. The agreement eliminates tariffs on various products and includes measures to simplify technical requirements and reduce trade costs.
Mercosur-EU Agreement Boosts Brazilian Exports, with Growth of Up to 421% in Select Products
In the first five months of implementation (May–September 2026), the Mercosur-EU trade agreement has driven significant export growth for Brazilian products benefiting from reduced or zero import tariffs. Key products showing gains include electrical transformers, honey, fresh avocados, and corn oil. Year-on-year comparisons with the same period in 2025 show increases of up to 421%.
EU Initiates Global Safeguard Investigation on Imported Hybrid Vehicles
The EU has launched a global safeguard investigation on imported hybrid automobiles. This measure could affect Asia-Pacific exporters, particularly major hybrid vehicle producers in Japan and South Korea. The investigation may lead to tariff-based safeguard measures if imports are found to cause serious injury to EU domestic industry.
WTO Members Review Safeguard Actions, Note Rise in Usage
The WTO Committee on Safeguards met on 26 October 2026 to review safeguard actions covering 39 products, including 11 steel/metal products, with members commenting on EU and UK steel safeguards. Members also discussed a possible EU investigation into hybrid vehicle imports, and Brazil proposed improvements to safeguard notification procedures.
Japan and Germany Sign Joint Declaration of Intent on Critical Minerals Cooperation
Japan’s METI and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy signed a joint declaration of intent on cooperation in the field of critical minerals. The agreement formalizes bilateral coordination on securing critical mineral supply chains. No further details are available from the snippet.
Notice on Further Improving Trade Liberalization and Facilitation in Hainan Free Trade Port
Four Chinese ministries (MOFCOM, NDRC, MEE, and General Administration of Customs) jointly issued a notice to further advance trade liberalization and facilitation measures in the Hainan Free Trade Port. The notice likely covers customs procedures, tariff arrangements, and market access measures specific to the FTP zone. No full text is available in the snippet.