Just when we thought it was safe to step outside and enjoy some certainty in the world of international commerce, the Trump Administration announced on Thursday afternoon a barrage of tariffs on 60 countries based on its recent Section 301 investigations. Section 301 permits the executive branch to evaluate a trading partner's "acts, policies, and practices that are unreasonable and burdens on, or restrictions of, U.S. commerce and are thus actionable." USTR launched its evaluation in March, and on 2 June USTR released its findings, determining that 60 countries did not effectively meet their requirements related to imports produced with forced labor. The public comment period was held from 7–9 July. The result of this effort is addit...
What You Need to Know Today: The U.S. weather forecast has shifted to favor more beneficial conditions for finishing the corn and soybean crops, which is removing some weather risk premium from futures. Traders are looking ahead to Friday’s September WASDE, which will offer major insight...
Key Takeaways: Mandatory Country of Origin Labeling would provide consumers with more consistent information about where their beef originates, but evidence from the previous COOL rule found little indication that labeling increased overall consumer demand for beef. The primary potential benef...
The California General Assembly has passed a bill aimed at increasing transparency related to ultra-processed foods. California Governor Gavin Newsom has until 30 September to take action on the bill, though it will most likely be signed into law. Late last year, California became the first sta...
From WPI Consulting
Weighing in on strategic realignment
WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.