2025 U.S. Regulatory Changes & What You Need to Know

Recent regulatory modifications in the U.S. have introduced significant changes, including additional tariffs and adjustments to De Minimis (DM) treatment, primarily affecting shipments with Country of Origin (COO) China and Hong Kong. These changes took effect on February 4, 2025.

Key U.S. Customs Regulatory Updates

1. New Tariffs on Goods from China & Hong Kong

On February 1, 2025, U.S. President Trump signed an Executive Order (EO) invoking emergency economic powers under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

 As a result:

• Additional tariffs have been imposed on all products with COO China and Hong Kong.
• De Minimis (DM) treatment is suspended for these products, requiring either informal or formal entry processing.
• No duty drawback is available on these newly imposed duties.

2. Tariff Suspensions for Canada & Mexico

Similar EOs were signed for Canada and Mexico, but these provisions have been suspended until March 4, 2025.
 

How Do These Changes Affect Your Business?

Starting February 4, 2025, shipments containing products with Country of Origin China and Hong Kong, regardless of their departure country, will require import customs duties based on the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS - 10 digits). 

These may include:

• General Duty Rate: Typically 2.5% to 6%
• Section 301 Tariff: Ranges from 7.5% to 100%
• New IEEPA Tariff: Additional 10%

Exemptions

Certain items are exempt from the additional IEEPA duties but still require informal/formal entry processing:

1. Donations
2. Informational Materials (e.g., publications, films, posters, CDs, photographs, microfilms, etc.)
    

Breakdown of Entry Requirements for Shipments from Rest of the World to the U.S.

Important: Shipments requiring formal entry must provide the Ultimate Consignee Tax ID/Social Security Number.
 

What You Need to Do

To ensure smooth customs clearance, shippers must: Provide a complete and accurate Commercial Invoice with:

• Detailed goods description Find more information in our FAQ here
• HTSUS classification (if available)
• Country of Origin (COO)
• Ultimate Consignee’s Tax ID/Social Security Number (for shipments over $250)
  Use electronic shipping solutions/integrations to input the necessary information upfront.
   

Need More Information?

For further details, consult official government resources:

• Executive Order on China Tariffs: The White House
• Navigating Section 301 Tariffs: United States Trade Representative
   

Disclaimer

Efforts have been made to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, given the fluid nature of trade regulations, liability for reliance on this information is disclaimed. Businesses are advised to consult with customs authorities or legal professionals for specific guidance.

For the latest updates, stay informed on regulatory changes.