April 2025 U.S. tariffs: Key changes for supply chains

On April 2 2025, the U.S. government has announced major changes to trade policy under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) that will have significant implications for global supply chains. These new measures introduce uniform and reciprocal tariffs designed to address large trade deficits and shift long-standing import practices.

Here’s everything importers, exporters, and supply chain leaders need to know to prepare for the changes.

Before we dive into this article, we hosted a webinar on April 7, covering the latest on U.S. tariffs with Michael Starr, Zencargo’s VP of Growth and Expansion: Tariff Talk: What U.S. reciprocal tariffs mean for the world.

Key Tariff Changes and Implementation Timeline

April 5, 2025 – 10% baseline tariff on all imports
A uniform 10% import tariff will apply to goods from all countries starting at 12:01 a.m. EDT on April 5, 2025. This applies to all goods unless specifically exempted. Goods already in transit and loaded on their final mode of transport before the deadline will not be subject to the new tariff, even if they arrive after the effective time.

April 9, 2025 – Higher tariffs on countries with trade deficits
Countries with which the United States runs the largest trade deficits will face individualized, higher reciprocal tariffs, effective April 9 at 12:01 a.m. EDT.
Other countries will remain under the baseline 10% tariff.
Goods in transit prior to this date and time will also be exempt from these new rates.

Goods exempt from reciprocal tariffs

The following product categories are excluded from the reciprocal tariff framework:

• Goods protected under 50 USC 1702(b)
• Steel, aluminum, automobiles, and automotive parts currently subject to Section 232 tariffs.
• Items expected to fall under future Section 232 tariffs including copper, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and lumber
• Bullion
• Energy and specific mineral imports that are unavailable in the United States

Canada and Mexico: Existing IEEPA orders remain in effect

Existing IEEPA orders related to fentanyl and migration remain in place for Canada and Mexico:

• USMCA-compliant goods continue to benefit from duty-free access
• Non-USMCA-compliant goods will be subject to a 25% tariff
• Non-USMCA-compliant energy and potash will be taxed at 10%

If IEEPA orders are rescinded in the future, non-compliant goods would then face a 12% reciprocal tariff, while compliant goods would retain their preferential treatment.

Elimination of De Minimis Exemptions for China, Hong Kong, and Beyond

May 2, 2025 – End of De Minimis for China and Hong Kong
All non-postal imports from China and Hong Kong valued at $800 or less will no longer qualify for duty-free treatment:

• Non-postal imports: Subject to full applicable duties
• Postal imports: A flat rate of 30% or $25 per item, whichever is greater. This increases to $50 per item from June 1, 2025

These new rates will override any previous exemptions or orders.

TBD – Full Withdrawal of Global De Minimis Treatment
An additional provision has been introduced to end de minimis treatment for all countries, pending readiness of U.S. customs systems.
Businesses that rely on low-value cross-border shipments—particularly in eCommerce—should begin planning for a future without de minimis thresholds.

How These Trade Policy Changes Could Affect Your Supply Chain

These tariff reforms represent a long-term strategic shift in U.S. trade dynamics, and could impact import costs, lead times, and sourcing strategies. While adjustments may occur over time, full removal of these tariffs is unlikely.

What you should do now:

• Evaluate your exposure to U.S. imports and identify at-risk trade lanes
• Review product classifications for accuracy and potential savings
• Consider alternate sourcing options or supply chain reconfiguration
• Work with your freight forwarding or customs partner to develop mitigation strategies

If you’d like tailored advice on how these tariff changes could impact your business, our trade and customs experts are here to help.
You can book a meeting directly in their calendar at a time that suits you.