Effective April 5, 2025, the U.S. government will impose new tariffs on imports from countries outside North America, citing unfair trade practices by trading partners. Below is a breakdown of the changes and their implications:
Key Changes
- Standard 10% Tariff
· Applies to all non-North American imports (excluding Canada and Mexico) starting April 5, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET.
· This is in addition to existing MFN rates and other applicable tariffs.
- Higher Tariffs for Select Countries (60+ Nations)
· A higher tariff rate (product-agnostic) will take effect April 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET.
- Exemptions for Canada & Mexico
· No additional 10% tariff if goods qualify for USMCA preference.
· Existing tariffs remain:
▫ 25% for non-USMCA-compliant goods.
▫ 10% for certain energy products and potash from Canada/Mexico outside USMCA rules.
- Duty Calculation for Mixed-Origin Goods
· The 10%+ tariffs apply only to the non-U.S. portion of an imported product, provided:
▫ The U.S.-originating portion constitutes ≥20% of the product’s total value.
- Low-Value Shipments (De Minimis ≤$800)
· General Imports (Excluding China/Hong Kong):
▫ 10%+ tariffs will apply in the future (once a collection mechanism is established).
· China & Hong Kong Imports (Effective May 3, 2025):
▫ Courier shipments: Subject to full applicable duties.
▫ Postal shipments: 30% tariff or $25 package fee(50 after June 1, 2025).
▫ CBP may require formal customs entry, triggering standard duties instead.
- Exempt Products
· Automobiles (25% universal tariff from April 3, 2025).
· Auto parts (25% universal tariff from May 3, 2025).
· Steel, aluminum, copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, lumber, critical minerals, and energy products.
· No duty drawback or exemptions for reciprocal tariffs.
- Customs Bond Considerations
· The 25% tariff may exceed current bond coverage—importers should review surety limits proactively.
Action Items for Importers
· Verify origin compliance for USMCA eligibility.
· Assess supply chain impacts, especially for mixed-origin goods.
· Monitor low-value shipment rules, particularly for China/Hong Kong.
· Review customs bond adequacy to avoid clearance delays.
For further details, refer to the full guidance on Customs Bonds and Tariff Adjustments.
Stay updated with official announcements from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
