Canada last week announced new import restrictions on Russian diamonds that are exported from or processed or polished in a third country. The restrictions now apply to natural diamonds 1 carat or greater and to any person in Canada “as well as Canadians outside of Canada.” Canada also said it revised its existing import ban on luxury items from Russia “to ensure consistency and clarity with the existing import ban on diamond and diamond-related products.”
Mexican Economy Secretary Raquel Buenrostro said in Mexico this week that if the U.S. reimposes 25% tariffs on Mexican steel exports over alleged surges, Mexico will retaliate. Mexico's steel exports are only 2.5% of the U.S. market, and U.S. steel exports are 14% of the Mexican market, so the U.S. has more to lose if Section 232 tariffs on Mexican steel return, she said.
Canadian steel importers soon will need to report “country of melt and pour” information to the Canada Border Services Agency when filling out their customs declarations, Canada announced Feb. 21. The new requirement, part of the country's steel import monitoring program, takes effect Nov. 5, although importers have the option of reporting that information now. “This process will ensure Canada is working with the steel industry to support an effective and smooth transition to mandatory reporting in fall 2024,” Canada said.