China Reports Sharp Growth in 2026 Q1 Shipbuilding Ahead of Xi-Trump Meeting
China's official data shows its shipbuilding industry remained firmly in the global lead in the first quarter of 2026, with output, new orders and backlog all rising sharply as demand held strong.
Ireland Investigates Shein for Data Practices
Ireland’s Data Protection Commission (DPC) has launched a formal inquiry into the data governance practices of Shein, the fast-fashion giant, marking the latest regulatory challenge for Chinese firms as they expand their footprint in Europe.
Members of Congress Introduce Chinese Auto Ban, Farmland Purchase Restriction Legislation
In advance of President Trump's trip to China this week, U.S. lawmakers are continuing to ratchet up political pressure against allowing the sale of Chinese automobiles in the U.S. They are also moving to restrict Chinese purchases of U.S. farmland.
CTM Weekly Newsletter
This past week, CTM covered the following issues.
China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued a blocking order against U.S. penalties that had been imposed on some Chinese companies for violating U.S. sanctions related to trading in Iranian oil. This action marks the first invocation of China'
U.S. Trade Court Ruling Strikes Down Section 122 "Balance-of- Payments Deficits" Tariffs
In a split opinion issued today, a two-judge majority on the U.S. Court of International Trade ruled that the surcharge imposed by the Trump administration under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 is inconsistent with the requirements of that statute.
USTR Initiates Second 4-Year Review of Section 301 China Tech Transfer Tariffs
Yesterday, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) initiated the second review of the Section 301 tariffs originally imposed on Chinese imports during the first Trump administration, and subsequently reviewed, extended, and modified during the Biden administration.
China's Rare Earth Export Controls: Q1 2026 Data Reveals Targeted Squeeze on U.S. and Japan
China’s rare earth exports rebounded in March, maintaining a steady global footprint one year after Beijing tightened its grip on the strategic minerals. However, new customs data reveals a divergence in trade patterns, with shipments to the United States and Japan plummeting amid escalating national security friction.