On April 2, the U.S. government set a new course for global trade. Two executive orders invoking the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA) introduced sweeping tariffs on most imports and significantly altered the landscape for international logistics. If you move goods across borders, it’s not business as usual.
Effective April 5, a 10% universal tariff applies to nearly all imported goods. On April 9, country-specific tariffs kick in—ranging from 20% on EU imports to 46% for Vietnam, and a combined rate exceeding 60% on Chinese goods. These aren’t theoretical changes. They’re here, and they’re already shifting strategy.
Find Annex I here with a list of the new reciprocal tariffs by country.
Goods in transit before these dates are exempt. However, from April 9 forward, importers will need to rethink timelines, costs, and compliance procedures quickly. Come May 2, the de minimis exemption disappears for Chinese goods—including parcels from Hong Kong. Small shipments that once entered duty-free will now trigger tariff liability.
The changes are even more immediate for automotive importers: 25% tariffs on finished vehicles took effect on April 3, and auto parts followed on May 3. Meanwhile, Foreign-Trade Zone (FTZ) users should act carefully—any goods admitted after April 9 must be in a privileged foreign status to remain compliant.
There are exceptions. Imports from Canada and Mexico are shielded, as are some sectors like pharma, energy, and some raw materials. But the burden for most other goods has sharply increased.
If you’re an importer or forwarder, you need a plan. You need someone watching the tariff tables, Customs codes, and retaliatory threats while you keep your supply chain moving. That’s where Everglory Logistics comes in. We’re already helping clients re-think sourcing, minimize cost exposure, and remain ahead of the curve despite shifting regulations.
Contact your Everglory representative today to clarify what these new tariffs mean for your shipments—and how to move forward confidently.
