Trade

A possible shift in congressional control could intensify debate over industrial policy, clean-energy tax incentives, trade, and immigration. With U.S. manufacturing employment at 12.65 million and factory investment slowing in 2025, policy changes could affect contractor supply chains, workforce availability, and project economics, but no bill or procurement action is identified.

The Canadian government has suspended its acquisition of 16 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters due to ongoing trade disputes with the U.S. This decision underscores a shift toward prioritizing domestic defense production while leaving critical operational gaps for Canadian forces in Arctic regions.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is facilitating connections between Philippine buyers and U.S. nuclear suppliers from October 10-17, 2026. This initiative supports the Philippines' ambitious goal of 1.2 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2032, presenting opportunities for U.S. firms in advanced reactor technologies and related services.

The U.S. Trade Representative seeks stakeholder input on the USMCA agreement ahead of its 2027 review. Companies relying on cross-border trade are encouraged to submit comments and may request to testify at an upcoming public hearing.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is organizing a delegation from Egypt, Jordan, and Morocco to engage with U.S. companies about LNG infrastructure. This visit from September 19-30, 2026, emphasizes expanding U.S. LNG technology exports in the MENA region, aligning with national energy strategies and creating opportunities for U.S. manufacturers.

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger has signed groundbreaking bipartisan legislation aimed at enhancing agricultural and forestry sectors. Key provisions include support for local food sourcing in schools and strategic trade policy adjustments, impacting procurement opportunities in the region.

The Port of Los Angeles achieved a historic monthly record by handling over 1 million TEUs in June 2026. This peak indicates robust import demand and reflects the efficiency of supply chain operations, generating significant procurement opportunities for logistics providers and transportation companies.

Uganda's upcoming Regional Industrialisation Conference aims to catalyze investment and production across East Africa. Procurement professionals should focus on the emerging opportunities that will arise from this initiative, particularly in cross-border trade and regional value chains.

The U.S. Trade and Development Agency is facilitating a visit by energy leaders from MENA to the U.S. This initiative aims to bolster U.S. LNG exports while fostering key infrastructure partnerships, creating new procurement opportunities for U.S. suppliers in the region.

The U.S. International Trade Commission continues investigations into air compressors from China, Malaysia, and Vietnam. This decision may lead to new trade measures that affect procurement policies for federal agencies and contractors reliant on these imports.

Arizona's export market flourished in 2025, achieving $44.4 billion and supporting 84,000 jobs. This trend underscores significant procurement opportunities, particularly for SMEs in manufacturing and agriculture sectors. Stakeholders should consider collaboration with foreign investors to enhance market reach and resilience.

New Mexico has opened applications for **Trade Port District** designations, with proposals due by **June 19, 2026**. This initiative under the **Trade Ports Development Act (HB 19)** aims to establish logistics hubs that will enhance trade efficiency and stimulate job growth, presenting significant opportunities for contractors and local stakeholders.