Tag: Tariff

Energy PolicyInternational Business and Trade

China Tightens Rare Earth Export Controls, Escalating Trade Tensions with US

China has imposed stringent new controls on rare earth exports through Ministry of Commerce announcement No. 62 of 2025, targeting American supply chain vulnerabilities. The move has triggered immediate retaliation threats from the Trump administration and threatens to derail upcoming trade negotiations between the two economic powers.

China Implements Sweeping Rare Earth Export Restrictions

China has significantly escalated trade tensions with the United States through new export controls on rare earth elements, according to reports from international trade analysts. The measures, detailed in China’s Ministry of Commerce announcement No. 62 of 2025, represent what experts describe as a strategic move targeting critical vulnerabilities in American manufacturing supply chains.

by Nathan Cole
BusinessInternational Business and Trade

Shein Reports Revenue Growth Amid Profit Decline and Trump Tariff Uncertainty

Fast-fashion giant Shein reported 20% revenue growth reaching $37bn while profits fell 13% to $1.5bn. The company warns of increasing uncertainties from evolving US tariff policies and faces allegations of aggressive tax avoidance through international corporate structures.

Revenue Growth Contrasts with Profit Decline

Fast-fashion retailer Shein has reportedly achieved significant revenue growth while facing profit challenges, according to newly released accounts. The Singapore-based company recorded a 20% increase in global revenues to $37bn, but pre-tax profits fell by 13% to $1.5bn last year from $1.3bn in 2023. Sources indicate that increased selling and marketing costs contributed to the profit decline even before the impact of recent changes to tariff policies.

by Elisa Romero
Energy PolicyInternational Business and Trade

Global Markets Brace for Renewed Trade War Volatility as Economic Uncertainty Returns

After a period of relative calm, businesses are bracing for increased economic uncertainty and financial market volatility. The temporary lull in trade tensions appears to be ending as key deadlines approach and postponed economic data threatens to hit markets simultaneously.

End of the ‘Phoney Trade War’ Period

After months of relative calm during the Northern summer, businesses worldwide are reportedly preparing for increased economic uncertainty and financial market volatility as trade tensions reemerge. According to Reuters analysis, the recent period may have represented a “phoney trade war” similar to the eight-month period of minimal military activity after World War Two began in 1939.

by Nathan Cole
Healthcare TechnologyInternational Business and Trade

US Drug Supply Faces Critical China Dependency, New Analysis Reveals

A comprehensive analysis reveals America’s deep dependence on China for pharmaceutical raw materials, with nearly 700 medications using chemicals exclusively sourced from Chinese suppliers. Experts warn this reliance could jeopardize patient access to essential medicines during trade disputes or global health crises.

Widespread Pharmaceutical Dependence on Chinese Chemicals

America’s drug supply chain faces significant vulnerability due to heavy reliance on Chinese-produced raw materials, according to a new analysis from U.S. Pharmacopeia. The report indicates that nearly 700 medications approved for use in the United States depend on chemical substances exclusively manufactured in China, raising concerns about supply stability amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

by Elisa Romero
Energy PolicyInternational Business and Trade

Trump Tariff Threat Against Spain Over NATO Defense Spending Dispute Explained

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Spain of potential trade penalties, including tariffs, due to its refusal to increase military spending to 5% of GDP as part of NATO commitments. This article explores the background, Spain’s defense stance, and the broader impact on transatlantic relations.

In a striking development that underscores ongoing tensions within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), President Donald Trump has publicly threatened Spain with trade penalties, including tariffs, over its refusal to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP. The announcement, made from the White House, highlights a deepening rift between the U.S. and one of its European allies, raising questions about unity and fiscal commitments in the alliance. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the dispute, Spain’s rationale, and the potential consequences for global trade and security.

Background of the NATO Defense Spending Dispute

by Nathan Cole