Global trade tariffs have seen a flurry of new developments recently, with countries adopting divergent policies—some easing, some tightening.

U.S. President Donald Trump has been steadily advancing Section 301 investigations to lay groundwork for potential new tariff measures. However, a major turning point occurred on May 7, when the U.S. Court of International Trade formally ruled that the 10% global tariffs previously imposed by Trump under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 are invalid. This policy may now be revised or even scrapped, sending a clear signal of potential tariff reductions.

Meanwhile, Australia has announced the imposition of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on Chinese hot-rolled coil steel, with a combined maximum rate of 82.4%. This underscores that critical industries such as steel remain at the center of global trade frictions.

The international trade landscape remains complex and fraught with uncertainty. Freight forwarders and shippers are advised to closely monitor policy changes worldwide and flexibly adjust their booking, customs declaration, and shipping schedules.