The executive order mandating English proficiency for truck drivers raises a fundamental question: is now the right time to introduce a stricter language mandate in an industry already strained by reduced freight and acute labour shortages?

Let’s be clear—this isn’t about whether truckers can read road signs (most can). It’s about enforcing broader standards: the ability to communicate clearly with law enforcement, complete documentation, and navigate the regulatory demands of cross-border and domestic transport. And that could have real consequences.

Part 4 of a 4-Part Deep Dive for Global Online Sellers.

As U.S. tariffs continue to shift, especially with the growing scrutiny around goods made in China, online sellers shipping direct-to-consumer into the U.S. need more than just a solid product — they need a clear tariff strategy.

The problem? Many U.S. consumers are still unaware that they might have to pay tariffs upon delivery — and that lack of understanding is creating a painful (and costly) ripple effect for e-

We all knew this was coming, right??

If you want to spot global trade trends early, just watch shipping, air cargo, rail, and trucking — the four pillars of the supply chain.

• Shipping: the workhorse moving containers packed with everything we buy.
• Air cargo: the VIP lane for critical, high-value goods.
• Rail: the heavy hauler, moving massive volumes inland from ports to distribution hubs.
• Trucking: the unsung hero that ties it all together on the ground.

This weekend, the Wall Street Journal seemed surprised by the continued strength of U.S. consumer spending, even in the face of rising economic uncertainty. (WSJ) However, what they may have overlooked is that consumer behaviour has actually been pretty consistent since the election. People are smart — they’re aware of the potential impact tariffs can have on everything from consumer goods to food and groceries, and they’re acting.

Part 3 of a 4-Part Deep Dive for Global Online Sellers.

If you're an e-commerce seller working with manufacturers in China or Vietnam, and you're selling into the United States, it's essential to understand Rules of Origin (RoO). These rules determine the country of origin of your goods — and that matters a lot when it comes to tariffs and compliance.

Let’s break it down — especially if you're sourcing materials or assembling products in multiple countries.

A practical session focused on market entry, this webinar will provide participants with an understanding of how to initiate business operations in the market with an emphasis on regulatory, legal, tax and strategic aspects, addressing the following objectives:

As the U.S. trade environment evolves, especially with the reactivation of aggressive tariffs under President Trump, online sellers shipping into the United States are navigating uncharted terrain. This GTPA Trade Pulse mini-series is designed to give you the practical insights, compliance strategies, and tariff intel you need to stay ahead — and stay profitable.

Your pathway to trade expertise begins now.

The Global Trade Passport Program is a digital credentialing initiative that opens doors to a wide range of foundational and specialised courses in international trade, supply chain, finance, compliance, policy, and more. Delivered through GTPA & EMTC, each course you complete earns you a digital badge – or “stamp” – that highlights your achievement and builds your professional credibility.

April 24, 2025

Reverse Uno? Trump Rewinds Tariffs—but Keeps His Cards Close

On April 24, President Donald Trump rolled back parts of the “Liberation Day” tariff blitz announced earlier this month. Facing heavy domestic pressure from business lobbies, public backlash, and early signs of economic strain, the administration has taken what some are calling a strategic sidestep under pressure — or in trade circles, a classic “Reverse Uno”.

Are you ready to embark on a global journey of growth and opportunity?

The Global Trade Passport Program is your gateway to mastering international trade through a flexible, personalised micro-credential experience. Whether you're building new skills or advancing existing ones, this dynamic program empowers you with digital badges and recognised credentials that validate your expertise in the ever-evolving world of global commerce.

Part 2 of a 4-Part Deep Dive for Global Online Sellers.

As the global e-commerce landscape evolves, online sellers shipping to the U.S. must prepare for increasing complexity around tariffs — especially when sourcing from China. This article takes a closer look at how tariffs on Chinese goods are determined and why understanding Rules of Origin (RoO) is essential to protect your margins and stay compliant.

Meet-and-Greet Sessions are designed to foster connections, spark conversations, and grow professional networks in a relaxed and supportive environment.

The shipping industry serves as a vital barometer for global economic health, often signalling shifts in trade dynamics before traditional economic indicators. This pattern was evident during the 2008 Global Financial Crisis (GFC), when a sharp decline in shipping volumes preceded the broader economic downturn. Similarly, recent trends in the maritime sector raise concerns about potential economic challenges ahead.​

The Global Trade Passport Program is a digital credentialing initiative that opens doors to a wide range of foundational and specialised courses in international trade, supply chain, finance, compliance, policy, and more. Delivered through GTPA & EMTC, each course you complete earns you a digital badge – or “stamp” – that highlights your achievement and builds your professional credibility.

These badges are more than just symbols — they’re verified credentials that you can share with employers, partners, and peers to demonstrate your growing trade expertise.

Trump’s use of tariffs, particularly his America First economic policies, can be likened to an old English king using taxation and land control to consolidate power and wealth.

In medieval England, kings (or their enforcers like the Sheriff of Nottingham) would impose taxes, seize land, or demand tributes from nobles and peasants. These funds would be used to strengthen the crown’s position, fund wars, or reward loyal allies. Similarly, Trump’s tariffs act as a kind of economic toll, where foreign goods entering the U.S. are taxed, theoretically making domestic goods more competitive. But like the old feudal tax system, the burden often falls on the people—in this case, American consumers and businesses that end up paying higher prices.

Why This Matters – And Why Now

If you are an SME or sole trader moving goods across borders—whether importing raw materials, finished products, or exporting goods overseas—what is happening in global trade right now is more than just background noise. It directly affects your bottom line.

The U.S. economy, valued at $30.34 trillion, is a staggering 8.11 times the size of the UK economy, which stands at $3.74 trillion.

This comparison underscores the vast economic gulf between the two nations, with the U.S. holding a dominant position.

Yesterday, Blue Origin’s New Shepard rocket carried six women to the edge of space in what the media quickly hailed as a "historic all-woman spaceflight." While the headlines celebrated this as a big step for female empowerment, let's not get it twisted: this wasn’t about science or exploration—it was a glorified luxury ride, 66 miles up for just 11 minutes. And calling it “female empowerment” doesn’t make it one.

Right now, the U.S. allows individual shipments under USD $800 to enter duty-free with minimal customs checks — this is known as the de minimis threshold. It’s been a key mechanism supporting low-value e-commerce flows into the U.S. from all over the world.

But big changes are now confirmed, and they’ll affect a huge portion of small parcel trade.

In today’s unpredictable global market, supply chain disruptions have become the new norm. From trade policy shifts and geopolitical challenges to natural disasters and demand volatility, businesses are increasingly feeling the pressure to adapt. To remain competitive and sustainable, one thing is clear: resilience is key.

Is your business crisis-ready? If not, it’s time to rethink your strategy.

Historically, there has not been a strong drive for a Commonwealth Free Trade Agreement (CFTA). The economic diversity among Commonwealth nations, disparities in development, and differing geopolitical priorities have made such an agreement appear impractical. However, given the current global trade landscape, there is an increasing case for forging a trade and security alliance among Commonwealth nations—one that leverages shared values, legal systems, and historical ties, even if those origins were not always positive.

PROMOTIONAL OFFER

In today’s unpredictable global market, supply chain disruptions are inevitable. From shifting trade policies to natural disasters, businesses everywhere must be prepared to adapt quickly. Resilience is no longer optional — it’s essential.

Your first step into the world of international trade and the Global Trade Passport Program, flexible micro-credential pathway designed to help you build foundational skills in global trade and supply chain.

EMTC is hosting a Save E-commerce - Save De Minims Open Forum where e-sellers, marketplaces, logistics companies, and others involved in the e-commerce industry can join an MS Teams meeting and ask EMTC leaders questions about the President's Executive Orders suspending de minimis shipments from Canada, China and Mexico as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Proposed Rules on Entry of Low-Value Shipments.

Chinese tariffs have surged to 145%. In a further escalation, China has just announced it will raise tariffs on U.S. goods from 84% to 125%, effective 12 April. These developments underscore the growing intensity of the trade dispute—yet history shows that a tit-for-tat tariff war helps no one, least of all small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), who often bear the brunt of rising costs and disrupted supply chains.

As of April 10, 2025, the European Union (EU) has finalized its retaliatory measures against U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. The EU's counter-tariffs are set to begin on April 15, 2025, and target approximately €21 billion ($23 billion) worth of U.S. goods. The affected products include:

In response to the United States' recent tariff hikes—including a blanket 10% tariff on all imports and specific tariffs up to 104% on Chinese goods—China has launched a suite of retaliatory trade measures. These actions have heightened the tensions between the world's two largest economies, amplifying the already precarious global economic situation.

A Chaotic Recipe for 2025

Ingredients:

1 cup of U.S. steel & aluminium tariffs

• We start with a solid base — 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from all countries, which kicked off the global trade chaos. It’s protectionism in a big way.

1 teaspoon of Section 232 & 301 spice

• Add a pinch of Section 232 and 301 — that’s the U.S. saying, ‘Hey, national security and intellectual property come first!’ This justifies the tariffs on steel, aluminium, and certain goods from China.

2 tablespoons of Chinese retaliatory tariffs

• China fires back — 34% tariffs on U.S. imports, bringing their total tariff rate in April to 84% on U.S. goods after the U.S. tariffs. A sharp, spicy comeback! 

Stay Ahead of Global Trade Trends

Catch up on the latest overnight developments shaping international trade.

Qatar Trade & Treasury Transformation Summit 2025
Date: Wednesday, 7th May 2025
Time: 10:00 A.M.
Venue: InterContinental Doha Beach & Spa

The U.S. is facing tariffs, strict immigration rules, economic uncertainty, and political instability…

In an era of shifting trade dynamics, economic uncertainty, and increasing supply chain challenges, now is the time to secure your place in a trusted global network of trade professionals. The Global Trade Professionals Alliance (GTPA) is offering a special 40% discount for new members throughout 2025.

Celebrating the largest GTR India in 2024 with an attendance of over 600 delegates, GTR is delighted to return to Mumbai once again in May 14, 2025.

Providing unmissable networking opportunities, the leading gathering of trade, supply chain and open account finance will enable delegates to connect with industry thought leaders, meet with highly esteemed exhibitors and forge new business contacts. Over 45 experts within the trade and trade finance sector will come together to explore the latest industry trends and developments as well as the challenges and opportunities ahead. The GTR team looks forward to welcoming you there!

The TradeExperettes cordially invite you to the second webinar in our new series centered on our flagship Ten “Quick Wins” report.

The upcoming “Job Interview'' practice session will occur on Wednesday, April 9th, 2025, at 09:00H EDT; 15:00H CET; 21:00H SGT. 

Various Cabinet Ministers in the USA, speaking on the Sunday Morning Shows, have been justifying certain tariffs, but there's something profoundly unsettling about a President announcing sweeping tariffs—and then heading to the golf course.

EMTC is hosting a Save E-commerce - Save De Minims Open Forum where e-sellers, marketplaces, logistics companies, and others involved in the e-commerce industry can join an MS Teams meeting and ask EMTC leaders questions about the President's Executive Orders suspending de minimis shipments from Canada, China and Mexico as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Proposed Rules on Entry of Low-Value Shipments.

The United States has long been a global economic powerhouse, influencing trade dynamics across multiple sectors. However, shifts in U.S. trade policy, economic instability, and regulatory changes create opportunities for other countries to capitalise on the evolving economic landscape. Key sectors where nations can benefit include the creative industries, education, innovation, foreign direct investment, and tourism.

GTPA will be providing further analysis on today’s global tariff announcement soon.

In the meantime, let’s take a moment to appreciate Happy Feet, the animated masterpiece from acclaimed Australian director George Miller. Consider this our placeholder announcement.