A turning point for US trade

The United States has entered a period of rapid change in trade policy, with decisions arriving in quick succession after months of gridlock. While several measures will ease the pressure on supply chains, others introduce new layers of uncertainty that businesses must now factor into their planning.

Tariffs

Tariff reductions on imports from China took effect in mid-November, providing manufacturers and retailers with long-awaited cost relief. Products spanning consumer goods, electronics and industrial inputs now enter the US under lower duty rates, offering greater pricing stability for shippers reliant on trans-Pacific flows.

These changes were complemented by the suspension of reciprocal port fees between the US and China on 10 November. The one-year pause removes additional charges that had been applied to vessels linked to either country, including automotive and RoRo carriers. For sectors dependent on predictable port rotations and cost-efficient vessel calls, this suspension marks a meaningful operational improvement.

Agricultural imports also received significant relief. A broad list of foods and related products, including fruit, meat, beverages, coffee, tea, tomato products and fertilisers is now exempt (effective 13 November) from previously imposed global tariffs. The exemptions apply retroactively, meaning many importers will be entitled to duty refunds once claims are submitted under standard customs procedures.

Despite these constructive steps, substantial uncertainty remains. The Supreme Court is deliberating a key case that will determine the extent of the president’s authority to impose emergency tariffs. With the outcome difficult to predict, shippers must be prepared for further shifts in the tariff environment. Even if the ruling limits emergency powers, other legal channels exist that could still be used to impose duties on targeted imports, keeping policy risk firmly in play.

Logicall: keeping you protected against us policy shifts

Logicall’s customs, brokerage and US compliance teams ensure your shipments remain compliant, timely and protected against sudden regulatory changes.

Speak with our specialists today to safeguard your operations and stay ahead of evolving US trade policy.