On Saturday, President Trump issued an Executive Order instructing Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to carry out a Section 232 investigation on whether timber, lumber, and their derivative products (such as paper products, furniture, and cabinetry) are a threat to national security.

This past week, CTM covered the following issues: In China: * China’s policy package to stabilize foreign investment * Letter to USTR * Crack down on malicious trademark registration  In the U.S.: * Trump administration foreign investment policy memo * Section 232 investigation on copper * Section 301 investigation on Chinese shipbuilding * Congressional hearing

The Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs held a nomination hearing today for several Trump administration officials, including the nomination of Jeffrey Kessler for Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security. If confirmed, Kessler will play a key role in a number of policy areas affecting trade

China has unveiled a comprehensive policy package aimed at bolstering foreign investor confidence and addressing key challenges in the face of global economic uncertainties. The plan, approved by the State Council, outlines 20 specific measures in expanding market access and other areas.

After Jamieson Greer was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the newly appointed U.S. Trade Representative, China's Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao sent a congratulatory letter to Greer while expressing concerns over recent and potential trade conflicts.

Yesterday, President Donald Trump directed the Secretary of Commerce to initiate a Section 232 investigation of copper imports, involving a review of whether these imports threaten to impair national security.

Canada and the EU have imposed sanctions targeting Chinese entities for allegedly supporting Russia's military-industrial complex amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, sparking diplomatic tensions and protests from Beijing.