The annual hot topics discussion of the International Commerce, Trade, Franchising and Product Law Section, where we will discuss all the latest and ongoing issues in the world of international commerce, trade, and product law, in a roundtable format,

Topic 1:

Navigating the shifting landscape: global trends and enforcement in economic sanctions and export controls

This session will explore the rapidly evolving regulatory environment surrounding economic sanctions and export controls, with a focus on the growing complexity of multilateral regimes, divergent national approaches, and heightened enforcement activity. Key topics will include the extraterritorial reach of U.S. and EU sanctions, the impact of geopolitical conflicts, emerging technologies, and corporate compliance strategies to mitigate legal and reputational risk in an increasingly interconnected global economy.

Table moderators: Sophie Gabillot, Christophe Rapin,

 

Topic 2:

Trump tariffs and new trade deals

Exploring new trade deals like EU–Mercosur and UK-USA

Table moderators: Horacio A Lopez-Portillo, Riccardo Giorgio Cajola, Dalton James Albrecht

 

Topic 3:

Navigating the impact of the tariff war on commercial contracts

The “tariff war”, whereby tariffs are imposed by the US on different countries and whereby some countries have also imposed tariffs on the US, brings uncertainty to commercial contracts especially as the tariffs are changing by the day. It would be interesting to discuss the impact hereof on the supply chain, including how the changing tariff burden should be allocated in new contracts (e.g. via “unforeseen circumstances or change in law” clauses, via “MAE clauses”, “force majeure” etc.) and how to deal with the changing tariff burden in already existing contracts.

Table moderators: Giovanna Giacchero, Andrara Tiru, Martin Abadi

 

Topic 4:

Agentic AI transforming the practice of law

Agentic AI refers to advanced systems capable of autonomously performing tasks, making decisions, and interacting with environments beyond their initial programming. As businesses integrate agentic AI into product strategies and navigate new EU AI law requirements, understanding its practical uses is crucial. In the legal sector, agentic AI can automate document review, legal research, contract analysis, and predictive analytics, allowing lawyers to focus on higher-value work. However, its adoption raises challenges and ethical considerations. This roundtable aims to provide insights, share experiences, and offer practical guidance for effectively integrating agentic AI into legal workflows, highlighting its transformative potential.

Table moderators: Talha Salaria, Peter Wagner, Dietmar Huemer

 

Topic 5:

Best practices for handling customer data and cybersecurity measures in franchise and distribution systems

All franchise and distribution systems must prioritise the secure handling of customer data. This roundtable will examine protocols to ensure data confidentiality, integrity, and availability, including secure storage, encrypted transmission, and regular security updates. We will discuss routine audits to identify vulnerabilities and review compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR. The session will also address cybersecurity measures such as defending against malware, phishing, and ransomware, implementing multi-factor authentication, and maintaining regular data backups. Finally, we will explore the importance of a robust incident response plan to effectively manage and mitigate potential data breaches or security incidents.

Table moderators: Dagmar Waldzus, Arthur L. Pressman

 

Topic 6:

Managing brand reputational risk arising from political or social controversy

Brands today face heightened risks from political and social controversies due to increased connectivity and rapid information sharing. This roundtable will focus on strategies for managing and mitigating these challenges, emphasising the importance of protecting brand reputation. Participants will examine real-world case studies, exchange best practices, and discuss proactive steps to address potential issues before they escalate. The session will also cover how to respond effectively when controversies arise, ensuring clear communication and maintaining stakeholder trust. By sharing insights and practical approaches, the roundtable aims to equip brands with the tools needed to navigate complex social and political landscapes.

Table moderators: Silvia Bortolotti, Alan R Greenfield

 

Topic 7:

Will the Most-Favoured-Nation (MFN) clause remain in effect amid US efforts to dismantle it?

The US has advocated for the removal of the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) clause in certain trade agreements. Recent free trade agreements indicate that MFN treatment is no longer automatically extended to other nations but is instead limited to the specific terms of each agreement. What does this shift mean for the future of global trade rules?

Table moderators: Martin Ibarra, Rene Medrado

 

Topic 8:

The future of cross-border e-commerce trade regulations

With the De Minimis scheme ending between the EU and the US in July 2024, and escalating regulatory scrutiny on Chinese shipments, the US introduced a major change on May 14, 2025: shipments valued at 800 USD or less from China and Hong Kong are now subject to a 54% tariff, with a fixed charge of 100 USD remaining in place — what are the implications for global parcel trade? At present, parcels account for approximately 20% of global trade, with shipments from China to the US alone valued at US 66 billion USD per year. How will these regulatory changes impact international e-commerce?

Table moderators: Yves Melin, Emilio Arteaga

 

Topic 9:

Challenges of product recalls and crisis management in global markets

Managing product recalls in an international context involves complex legal, logistical, and reputational challenges. This round table will focus on best practices and legal considerations for global recall strategies.

Key discussion points will include:

• cross-border coordination - harmonising recall procedures across jurisdictions with differing rules and timelines;

• legal Obligations and notification requirements - understanding mandatory reporting to authorities and consumers in various markets;

• risk mitigation and liability exposure - balancing transparency with limiting legal exposure and reputational damage;

• consumer communication and trust rebuilding - strategies for effective communication during recalls to maintain brand reputation.

Table moderators: Daniele Ferretti, Edona Vila