January 8, 2025–Top Stories: USTR Shift
White House Update
U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel filed a federal lawsuit against the Biden Administration this week, challenging the Administration’s decision to block Nippon’s proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel. Read the White House Press Release.
Legislative Update
A bill introduced this week would form a committee to plan the transfer of USTR’s functions and responsibilities to Congress. Read the bill introduced by Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA).
Regulatory Update
Private parties can now bring class actions to the Federal Maritime Commission to settle disputes under the agency’s regulations. Read the FMC policy statement.
Industry Insight
New trade policies being discussed in Washington, DC could require importers to “track the owners of inputs in their manufacturing goods to satisfy importing trade remedies, preferences, and controls.” Read Eugene Laney’s 2025 Outlook on Trade.
More Stories to Stay Informed:
- President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his intention to “put very serious tariffs on Mexico and Canada” at a press conference in Mar-a-Lago yesterday.
- APHIS announced adjusted user fee rates for providing certain goods and services today, including veterinary diagnostic goods and services for imports and exports of live animals and animal products.
- China announced new export controls last week, targeting 28 U.S. companies including large U.S. defense contractors.