International Trade Policy Developments

From tariffs to traceability

image trade policy report
Tariffs still grab the headlines, but the bigger shift in trade policy happen before your goods even reach the border. Where the product was made (and the proof thereof), which suppliers contributed to it, what carbon footprint it carries and how it will be handled at the end of its life cycle increasingly decide how much duty you pay, and sometimes whether you can sell your product in the EU at all. 

Every quarter, our colleagues at BDO Global map the trade developments that matter, from Washington and Brussels to London, Asia-Pacific and the WTO. This edition covers June to August 2026. It gives you a clear view of what changed, why t matters and where your company is likely to feel it first. 
 

What you can expect to find in the full report

  • Europe tightens the rules at its own border 
    Since 1 July, a new steel regime has cut duty-free volumes almost in half and doubled out-of-quota duties to 50%. A €3 duty now also applies to low-value e-commerce parcels, with new data requirements from 1 November. 

  • Sustainability rules become market access rules 
    BDO Germany expert Grit Köthe explains why five EU frameworks, from CBAM to the EUDR, belong on one agenda rather than five. For larger operators, the EUDR’s main obligations start on 30 December. 

  • Washington changes its tools, not its direction 
    New US tariffs now cover most imports, EU goods included. A White House report also targets goods re-routed through third countries. If you export to the US, expect a closer check on origin.
     
  • Markets keep opening, under conditions 
    The EU’s agreements with Mexico and Indonesia are moving closer to application. Remember to update your supplier records to claim them. 

Questions about the developments in this report? 

Get in touch with Indra Vonck, BDO Industry Leader in Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics.