Navigating the Impact of Tariff Changes on Your Supply Chain

On February 1, 2025, the United States government announced the implementation of tariffs on all Canadaorigin, Mexico-origin and China-origin goods entering the United States. These tariffs are being applied under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

The 10% tariff on all China-origin goods entering the U.S. took effect on February 4. Canada and Mexico import tariffs will be delayed by one month and are currently scheduled to resume on 4 March 2025 in the absence of any further announcements. Currently, there is no expiry or revisitation date on the tariffs and no opportunity for tariff exemption. A fact sheet from the U.S. government can be found here.

We recognize that these changes may create uncertainty in supply chains, and we're dedicated to assisting you in managing these challenges. We can assist you in the assessment of how these potential tariffs could affect your business through our Global Trade and Customs Consultancy under our Customs Services product that provides strategic sourcing and contingency planning advice.

Section 321/ De Minimis / Low Value Shipments (less than $800) Restrictions

Section 321 allows goods valued under $800 to enter the U.S. without duty. However, this exemption does not apply to products from China and Hong Kong. These shipments must go through a formal or informal entry process, which means tariffs will apply even to low-value goods. Imports valued at $800 or less will be subject to full duty and must include a 10-digit HTS code. Maersk Global Trade & Customs Consulting can assist with compliance and entry requirements.

Steel and Aluminum Tariffs

Furthermore, it was announced on February 10, 2025, that all steel and aluminum import tariffs, regardless of country of origin, will be raised from 10% to 25%. This will come into effect from March 12 and may lead to retaliatory measures from other countries.

Please refer to the frequently asked questions about the new import tariffs.

How Maersk can help

Maersk’s Trade and Customs Consultants can provide advice and guidance on:

• Actions that businesses should take now in the face of these developments to help mitigate the impact of the tariffs and navigate the customs landscape in Asia-Pacific and globally;

   

• Tariff mitigation strategies;
• Cash-flow strategies – including bonding goods, drawback and deferment schemes; and
• Sourcing – impacts of either shifting production or new sourcing of goods, parts or raw materials.

Please note that this advisory is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Our goal is to provide you with information that helps your plan your supply chain with ease, giving you more reliability and visibility over your logistics moves.

As trade policies and tariffs are subject to change, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or complete-ness of this information. We strongly advise you to verify details with official sources before making business decisions.

We are committed to facilitating global trade and remain neutral and do not endorse any political position or government policy. We appreciate your partnership, and our teams are standing by, ready to assist you in adapting to the evolving landscape.