Tariffs on imports into the US remain a constant issue, with President Trump continuing to impose tariffs on various countries. On July 15, the Trump Administration announced a 25% tariff on numerous imports from Brazil. The levies will be effective on July 24 following a year-long Section 301 investigation into unfair trade practices. A few days later, President Trump announced a 50% tax on various imports from Canada taking effect on August 19. These will address “discriminatory treatment of US Commerce” and will be under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930. The imposition of these new levies could significantly impact international shipping, especially with new tariffs potentially being announced soon.

Why Is Trump Continuing To Impose Tariffs On Various Countries?

While President Trump is imposing import tariffs for various reasons, they can originally be traced back to the IEEPA tariffs. On February 1, 2025, Trump issued levies under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The goals were to reduce trade deficits, use them as leverage in trade talks, and bring production back to the US. Following the Supreme Court striking down the IEEPA tariffs on February 20, 2026, Trump imposed levies in other ways, including sections of past trade acts. These included Section 232, Section 338, Section 122, a Section 301 investigation, and others. Trump could enforce more levies soon, with a 10% global duty expiring on July 4.

What Can This Mean For Shipping?

As tariffs continue to be imposed on imports into the US, International shipping could continue to feel the impact. Shipping costs may continue to rise, which will be felt across numerous parts of the supply chain. There is also a fear that the countries impacted could impose their own retaliatory tariffs, further rising costs. US ports may see more traffic as importers quickly bring in more goods to avoid the tariffs. The levies could also impact domestic shipping, with trucks typically moving US imports to the final destination. Shippers must continue to monitor policy changes and HTS codes to see if the tariffs may impact their goods.

Although the tariff hikes can be alarming, it should not stop the importation of goods into the US. Shippers should, however, take the proper steps to avoid supply chain disruptions. When importing into the US, it can be ideal to speak to a customs broker like A1 Worldwide Logistics. Customs brokers are licensed corporations, partnerships, and private individuals who arrange customs clearance on behalf of importers. In the US, they ensure compliance with CBP (Customs and Border Protection) regulations. Brokers do this by offering services such as filing entries, calculating duties, providing paperwork, consultation, and more. Reach us at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9752 to speak to a broker regarding a successful importation.