In today's globalized world, trade regulations are not only a legal means to regulate international economic activities, but also an important tool for countries (or regions) to advance their own strategic goals and respond to global challenges on the global stage. Recently, the European Union has adopted a series of new regulations and sanctions to further limit the advancement of climate change, maintain regional security and promote green economic transformation.

1. New trends in environmental protection legislation

1. Regulations to reduce fluorinated gases and ozone-depleting substances

The European Union Council recently adopted two environmental regulations that mark the region's leading position in global environmental legislation. These regulations aim to gradually reduce the use of fluorinated gases such as hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and other substances that deplete the ozone layer to address the challenge of global warming.

According to the new regulations, HFCs consumption will gradually decrease to zero by 2050. It is particularly noteworthy that the new regulations also completely ban the release of products and equipment containing HFCs on the market. This includes household refrigerators, chillers, foams and aerosols, etc., where there are technically and economically viable alternatives to fluorinated gases. This regulation imposes higher environmental standards on manufacturers, while also encouraging technological innovation and the development of alternatives.

2. Prohibit greenwashing advertising and labeling of products

The European Parliament's adoption of the "Empowering Consumers for a Green Transition" directive further demonstrates the EU's determination to combat environmental misleading practices. This directive explicitly prohibits the so-called "greenwashing" phenomenon, in which companies mislead about the environmental impact of their products or services through carbon offset measures.

According to the decree, companies cannot claim that their products or services are "carbon neutral," "net zero emissions," "limited carbon footprint," or "limited climate impact" without clear, objective, and public evidence. In addition, the use of environmental labels such as "natural," "environmentally friendly," and "biodegradable" also needs to be supported by sufficient evidence to protect consumers from being misled.

2. EU’s escalation of foreign trade sanctions

1. Embargo on Russian aluminum

As part of the 13th round of sanctions against Russia, the EU decided to embargo Russian aluminum. The decision, based on the 12th round of sanctions approved by the EU Council last December, further expands the scope of economic sanctions against Russia. The embargo covers Russian aluminum and its products, a move that could have a significant impact on the global aluminum market given its roughly 6% share of the global market.

2. Extending economic sanctions against Russia again

In addition to the embargo on Russian aluminum, the EU also decided to extend economic sanctions against Russia for another six months, until July 31, 2024. Since July 2014, the EU's economic sanctions against Russia have been normalized and reviewed every six months. These sanctions cover a variety of areas such as trade, finance, energy and luxury goods, and are aimed at responding to Russia's behavior on the international stage.

3. Expanding sanctions on Syria

While imposing sanctions on Russia, the EU has not relaxed its economic pressure on Syria. In the latest round of sanctions, the EU added the Syrian leader's economic adviser and five other entities to the sanctions list. These measures include freezing assets and prohibiting the direct or indirect provision of funds or economic resources to the sanctioned targets. Since 2011, the EU's sanctions on Syria are aimed at responding to the country's internal conflict and human rights issues.

In the future, as these regulations are implemented, it is expected that technological innovation and the development of environmentally friendly products will be promoted, while also having a profound impact on international trade and the political landscape. For global companies, adapting to these changes and complying with new laws and regulations will be the key to future success.