Tariff Summary: Navigating the Latest Trade Shifts
Recent regulatory changes are reshaping the logistics landscape. Here’s what you need to know:
- Section 232 Tariffs Increased: Tariffs on steel and aluminum imports have doubled from 25% to 50%, excluding the UK, which remains at 25% until July 9. Importers must now separate metal and non-metal components in customs entries to comply with new reporting requirements.
- IEEPA Tariffs Ruled Unlawful: On May 28, the U.S. Court of International Trade declared tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) unlawful. However, these tariffs remain in effect pending appeal, with a stay in place until at least June 9. Importers should track affected entries for potential refunds.
- Section 301 Exclusions Extended: The U.S. Trade Representative has extended certain exclusions from China Section 301 tariffs through August 31, 2025. Companies relying on these exclusions should prepare for the potential re-imposition of tariffs after this date.
In this evolving trade environment, Imperative Logistics offers:
- Trade Compliance Support: Assistance in updating Bills of Materials (BoMs) and customs documentation to meet new tariff reporting standards.
- Proactive Routing Alternatives: Identifying and implementing alternative shipping routes to mitigate delays from port congestion or geopolitical disruptions.
- Critical Shipment Prioritization: Prioritizing time-sensitive shipments to ensure timely delivery amidst supply chain challenges.
- Regulatory Monitoring: Continuous tracking of trade policy changes to provide timely updates and strategic advice.
If you have questions or need support reviewing your product classifications, entry documents, or sourcing plans, please reach out to your account representative—and for more details, you can also view the latest Tariff Fact Sheet linked below.
View the latest Tariff Information:
Canada is preparing countermeasures in response to new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum.
Cross-border shippers should assess sourcing strategies and review HTS classifications for exposure to new duties.
Congestion and labor action in Antwerp and other EU hubs are delaying vessel schedules across North Europe and the Mediterranean.
These delays are expected to continue through July as port backlogs and strike-related slowdowns persist.
Spot rates for container shipping have risen sharply due to a temporary tariff pause between the U.S. and China.
Drewry’s World Container Index increased 41% in a week, indicating potential cost implications for shippers.
A $320 million agreement will fund infrastructure development for the Lobito Corridor, improving export routes from central Africa.
Forwarders and shippers operating in sub-Saharan Africa should watch for new opportunities in mineral and bulk commodity transport.
Australia’s proposal to close Glebe Island Port has raised alarms over supply chain resilience and national security.
Stakeholders shipping to or from Sydney should track regulatory decisions and assess contingency port options.
