Latest U.S. Tariff Developments – What You Need to Know
- U.S.–China Tariff Adjustments (Effective May 14, 2025):
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A 10% reciprocal duty will apply to most Chinese goods for 90 days.
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An additional 20% of fentanyl-related duties remain unchanged.
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De minimis and postal shipments from China will face a 54% duty or a $100 flat rate per shipment, whichever is higher.
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These new rates replace prior 125%+ tariffs and eliminate the planned $200 postal duty that was set for June 1.
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- U.S.–UK Trade Relationship Changes (Effective May 14, 2025):
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UK imports to the U.S. also move to the 10% universal baseline duty during the pause.
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First 100,000 UK vehicles/year get the 10% rate; excess units face 25%.
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U.S. and UK committed to negotiating new terms for steel and aluminum trade (Section 232 duties remain for now).
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- Refunds on Past Duties?
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No refunds are available at this time for duties already paid prior to these changes.
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- Concessions from China and the UK:
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China to mirror the 10% duty reduction on U.S. goods (also for 90 days).
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China will lift certain non-tariff barriers, including tech restrictions and mineral export bans.
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The UK will expand duty-free quotas:
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Beef: The new 13,000 metric ton quota will replace the previous 1,000 metric ton limit.
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Ethanol: 1.4 billion liters duty-free.
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Both countries are expediting tariff adjustments through their domestic processes.
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- Broader Trade Trend:
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The 10% baseline tariff aligns with U.S. policy goals set in 2024 and now applies to most trading partners.
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Higher reciprocal tariffs from earlier this year were paused in April, solidifying the 10% rate as the standard, for now.
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Future tariff adjustments may still be on the table depending on partners’ trade practices and market access.
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As always, Logistics Plus is here to help! When change happens, Logistics Plus delivers!
