Recently, several countries, including Russia, Italy, Cambodia, and the European Union, have issued trade bans or adjusted trade restriction measures. Stay informed about policy developments to effectively mitigate risks and minimize economic losses.

Russia

Prohibit the export of scrap precious metals

The Russian government issued a temporary ban on the export of scrap precious metals in 2023. This ban is effective from November 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024. According to the announcement, during this period, the export of scrap metals coated with precious metals, other waste and debris containing precious metals or their compounds, and waste and debris from electrical and electronic products used for extracting precious metals is prohibited from Russia.

The primary purpose of this decision is to increase the utilization rate of refining facilities within Russia, boost tax revenue, and help reduce illegal foreign trade activities related to the export of precious metals. Prior to this, a similar ban was issued in Russia from March 20, 2023, to September 20, 2023.

European Union

In order to reduce the transportation of problematic waste to regions outside the European Union (EU), the EU Council and the EU Parliament have indeed reached a temporary political agreement to revise the Waste Shipment Regulation. The agreement proposes to ban EU member states from exporting waste plastics to non-Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries.

This measure reflects the EU's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, aiming to ensure that waste management adheres to high standards and reduces its impact on the global environment. However, before this agreement formally takes effect, it still needs further scrutiny and approval from the EU Council and the EU Parliament.

① Once this policy is ultimately approved and implemented, it is expected to have an impact on the global waste treatment and recycling industry. Especially, non-OECD countries that rely on the import of waste plastics may need to seek alternative resources or improve their own waste management and recycling capabilities. Simultaneously, this may encourage EU member states to develop more advanced waste treatment technologies and circular economy solutions domestically.

②Plans for the 12th round of sanctions against Russia

According to reports from Bloomberg citing sources, the European Union is considering the implementation of the 12th round of sanctions against Russia, which may involve approximately 5 billion euros (about 38.7 billion yuan) in trade volume. It is said that in this round of sanctions, both imports and exports are expected to contribute roughly half each.

However, the details and execution of this round of sanctions may be influenced by divergent opinions among EU member states. For instance, Hungary has previously opposed sanction proposals, leading to a deadlock in the sanction plans. Additionally, some member states may question the effectiveness of sanctions and explore the possibility of easing the measures.

③Considering the prohibition of component pairing

According to reports from foreign tech media such as The Verge, some advocates for the right to repair are seeking solutions to the issue of component pairing in electronic products. Legislators in Europe and the United States are considering the enactment of corresponding laws and regulations to restrict or prohibit the practice of component pairing. This issue is particularly evident in Apple's iPhone, as the company uses software to lock specific hardware components, preventing users from using replacement parts even if they are from other genuine iPhones.

④Prohibit Meta from using personal data for advertising

According to a report from the Irish Observer on November 2, 2023, the European Data Protection Board (EDPB) issued an emergency binding decision prohibiting Meta Platforms, Inc. (the parent company of Facebook and Instagram) from processing user personal data for behavioral advertising purposes. The request for this action was made by the Norwegian data protection authority Datatilsynet, which believed that Meta's behavioral advertising practices infringed on user privacy and could potentially violate the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Italy

Ban on the Import of 'Lab-Grown Meat

In 2023, Italy approved a law prohibiting the production, sale, or import of "lab-grown meat," becoming the first European Union country to ban cultured meat. This ban reflects the Italian government's commitment to protecting its domestic agricultural sector and traditional dietary culture.

Cambodia

Proposed Ban on Importing High-Powered Electrical Appliances

In an effort to effectively manage energy consumption, the Cambodian government has considered a ban on the import of high-powered electrical appliances. This measure aims to reduce energy demand and promote more sustainable development.

Germany

Considering Implementing an Export Ban on Ozempic

The German pharmaceutical regulatory authority has considered implementing an export ban on the diabetes medication "Ozempic" (generic name semaglutide) produced by Novo Nordisk. This consideration is primarily due to excessive demand for the drug for weight loss purposes, leading to shortages in the supply of the medication needed by diabetic patients. Reports indicate that this measure is being taken to ensure the adequate supply of medication for diabetic patients.

Australia

①Will prohibit the import and production of small air conditioning devices emitting more than 750 GWP

Starting from July 1, 2024, Australia will prohibit the import and manufacturing of small air conditioning devices using refrigerants with a Global Warming Potential (GWP) exceeding 750. This ban is aimed at reducing carbon emissions and aligning with environmental protection and climate change goals. The applicable products include devices designed to use refrigerants with a GWP exceeding 750, even if these devices are not loaded with refrigerants at the time of import.

②Ban on the Import of All Electronic Cigarettes

December 7, 2023: Media reports indicate that the Australian government has announced a comprehensive ban on the import of disposable e-cigarettes starting from January 1 next year. This measure is aimed at preventing more children from becoming addicted to nicotine.

India

Extending the Ban on Rice Exports Until 2024

According to news in November 2023, the Indian government has decided to extend the ban on rice exports until 2024. This decision aims to ensure an adequate domestic rice supply and curb price increases, especially amid anticipated food shortages and inflationary pressures on food prices.

As one of the world's largest rice-exporting countries, India's restrictions on rice exports may have an impact on the global grain market, particularly for countries that rely on imported rice.

Canada

Stricter Restrictions on the Import and Export of Ivory and Rhino Horns to be Implemented

In November 2023, the Canadian government announced stricter restrictions on the import and export of ivory and rhino horns. These new measures will officially take effect on January 8, 2024, with the aim of combatting illegal wildlife trade and protecting endangered species. Under the new regulations, international trade in ivory and rhino horns in Canada will be subject to more rigorous oversight. The additional restrictions will come into effect starting from January 8, 2024.