As part of our ongoing commitment to keep you informed of important trade developments, we’d like to provide an update on two trade developments recently announced between the United States and China, and the United States and the United Kingdom. These developments may directly impact your supply chain operations, landed costs, and compliance planning.

U.S. – China

Effective May 14, 2025, the following tariffs will apply (as relevant to your goods):
  • Section 301 Tariffs – Still in effect (7.5% or 25%, depending on classification)
  • Section 232 Tariffs – Still in effect (25% on Steel, Aluminum, their derivatives, and Automobiles, if applicable)
  • IEEPA Fentanyl National Emergency Tariff – 20%
  • IEEPA Reciprocal Tariff – 10%

Additional note on Low-Value Shipments:

  • The duty on low-value imports from China (including Hong Kong and Macau) has been reduced from 120% to 54%. The $100 duty per postal item remains in effect.

U.S. – UK Agreement

On May 8, 2025, the United States and the United Kingdom announced an economic agreement.

Key Highlights

  • Tariff relief for UK steel and aluminum exports to the U.S. (reduced to 0%).
  • UK automobile exports will face a 10% tariff on the first 100,000 vehicles annually; additional vehicles remain subject to the 25% rate.
  • The UK will increase quotas for U.S. beef and eliminate tariffs on U.S. ethanol exports.
  • The 10% tariff rate on most other UK import goods remains in place for now, with negotiations ongoing.

What This Means for your Business

These agreements could reduce landed costs for many importers and exporters. However, as some provisions are temporary or still under negotiation, businesses should stay proactive and adaptive.

We recommend:

  • Reviewing your sourcing and tariff exposure, especially if importing into the U.S. from China, Hong Kong, Macau, or the UK.
  • Updating landed cost models in light of new duty rates.
  • Ensuring customs documentation and classifications (HTSUS codes) are accurate and up to date.
  • Preparing for potential compliance updates tied to quota-based and product-specific tariff structures.

We’re Here to Help

These changes may have a direct impact on your supply chain. Maersk’s Trade Services team is prepared to support you with:

  • Tariff impact analysis
  • Customs compliance planning
  • Supply chain risk reviews
  • Invoice structure updates
  • Strategic sourcing and market access evaluations

For assistance regarding:
North America regulations, please contact us at: compliance.mcsi.nam@maersk.com.
China regulations, please contact us at: GTCCAPA@maersk.com.
EU regulations, please contact us at: consulting@lns.maersk.com.

Stay informed with the latest tariff changes and guidance at our Global Tariffs Resource Page.

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