US Trade Policy Shock: Trump’s team is rebuilding a global tariff wall after the Supreme Court struck down sweeping tariffs, using forced-labour and “excess capacity” probes under Section 301—meaning some countries may gain while others face higher costs. Lesotho–World Bank Push: Lesotho and the World Bank signed over M840m in deals to expand clean energy access, skills development and nutrition outcomes. Lesotho Industrial Rescue: The LNDC launched “Letsema” (2026–2031), aiming for 50,000 net new jobs and 100 homegrown industrialists, targeting import dependence and low local value-add. Energy, Jobs and Accountability: The Auditor-General says CAFI’s spending capacity hit only 41% of its revised budget, while the Ombudsman flags major failures in compensation and service delivery, including LHDA displacement issues. Regional Cooperation: Botswana and Lesotho vowed deeper implementation on water, energy, trade, agriculture and investment through their bi-national commission. Fuel Price Clarity: Lesotho’s Petroleum Fund moved to clear confusion, stressing it does not supply petrol directly but monitors pricing and the supply chain. Private Sector & Trade Links: A report highlights how Lesotho textiles could help Botswana manufacturers by filling the fabric gap—if production chains connect. De Beers Update: De Beers says its diamond sale could close in weeks, with southern African governments seeking equity stakes.