In the wake of newly imposed tariffs and the removal of the de minimis threshold for all products being imported from China to the US, many retailers are wondering how it will affect their delivery processes, shipping costs and supply chains. We keep you up to date with the latest developments.
We bring you the latest updates on the ever-evolving global trade tariff situation.
#May 2025 update
• Following ongoing hikes in trade tariffs between the US and China, the US slashed tariffs on Chinese goods on 13th May from 145% to 30% – initially for a 90-day period.
• In return, China cut its own tariffs on US imports from 125% to 10%.
• In the wake of these changes, President Trump has further stipulated reduced tariffs on small packages worth up to $800 (£606) from 120% to 54%, according to a White House statement.
• The US agreed to reduce import taxes on a set number of British cars and allow some steel and aluminium into the country tariff-free, as part of a new deal between the US and UK. Import tax on cars (which the US raised to 25% last month), has been reduced to 10% for 100,000 cars a year.
#April 2025 update
The US made two critical policy changes.
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Additional tariffs of at least 10% to be added to all global imports. This was implemented as of 12.01 a.m. on 5 April 2025 EDT.
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The end of the duty-free de minimis exemption for goods originating from the People’s Republic of China (PRC) and Hong Kong. This was implemented as of 12.01 a.m. on 2 April 2025 EDT and is subject to the Customs Border Patrol (CBP) having adequate measures in place to collect funds. As of 2 May 2025, anything imported to the U.S. with country of origin as China or Hong Kong are exempt from the de minimis threshold.
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From 3 April, a 25% tariff on all passenger vehicles and light trucks. Tariffs of 25% on automobile parts are due to be implemented no later than 3 May.
#February 2025 Update
On Sunday 2nd February, the US announced the proposed implementation of tariffs on goods entering the USA from Canada, China and Mexico. They have decided to defer these plans for 30 days in the case of Canada and Mexico.
Additionally, the US plans to extend the de minimis exemptions for goods originating from the same three countries. This means that low value parcels under the value of $800 will no longer enter the US duty free.
Added to this, the US announced a new measure this week of reciprocal tariffs for individual countries based on trading agreements, including imports and exports. Value-added taxes – taxes levied to goods during each stage of production – will be considered as tariffs as part of the reciprocal plan.
A fact sheet published by the US government can be viewed here.
#What are tariffs and why are they imposed?
Put simply, tariffs are the taxes on goods imported from other countries. They aim to protect domestic manufacturers by making locally made goods cheaper.
#How much are the proposed US tariffs?
25% tariff on goods with a country of origin of Mexico – delayed for 30 days 25% tariff on goods with a country of origin of Canada (10% for energy products) – delayed for 30 days An additional 10% tariff on goods with a country of origin of China
Reciprocal tariffs worldwide to be calculated on individual countries trading agreements
#We’re ready to support you through this ever-changing landscape
At SAMOS, we specialise in helping e-commerce companies navigate the complexities of international trade and shipping. Our in-house experts are closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds so that we can ensure our customers’ deliveries are fully compliant and all duties are appropriately charged.
Our in-depth expertise of cross-border logistics and global customs enable us to tailor solutions to e-commerce companies. We aim to always keep shipping simple, streamlined and cost effective.
If you’re concerned about these regulatory changes, get in touch, and we’ll help you decipher the information and adapt to the challenges ahead.
