A global trend towards greater transparency in product origin is prompting new labeling mandates in several key markets, even as the European Union considers softening its ‘Made in EU’ rules for public procurement. In Australia, new country-of-origin labeling for seafood will become mandatory for hospitality businesses starting July 1, 2026. According to Mirage News, restaurants, cafes, and takeaways will be required under the updated Australian Consumer Law to clearly indicate on menus and displays whether their seafood is Australian, imported, or a mix of both.

Similarly, Taiwan is holding firm on its labeling regulations. Following a new trade agreement with the United States, Taiwan’s Executive Yuan confirmed that existing country-of-origin labeling rules for both packaged and bulk beef and pork products will remain unchanged, the Taipei Times reports. These regulations, which also apply to food and beverage establishments, will continue to be enforced alongside established food safety management systems.

 

In Africa, a bloc of nations is moving towards regional standardization. According to the SDG Knowledge Hub, Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda have notified the WTO of a proposed regional standard for glass containers, DEAS 935:2025. The draft standard aims to improve consumer information, ensure health and safety, and reduce technical barriers to trade, with a public comment period open until March 17, 2026.

 

In contrast to this tightening of origin rules, a leaked draft of the EU’s Industrial Accelerator Act (IIA) suggests a more flexible approach for public procurement. As reported by EUROMETAL, the revised text would allow the European Commission to designate certain third countries as equivalent to EU producers for the procurement of strategic goods like steel. This move is seen as a response to concerns about supply chain disruptions from overly strict origin requirements. To gain this status, third countries would need reciprocal trade commitments with the EU. The final version of the IIA is expected to be published on February 25, 2026. These divergent approaches highlight a complex global landscape where consumer-facing transparency is increasing while strategic industrial procurement may see more flexible sourcing rules.

 

#CountryOfOrigin #TradePolicy #LabellingRules #EUProcurement #GlobalTrade #BreakingNews #InternationalTradeCouncil