by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Nov 19, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Tariffs
An executive order signed by President Trump on Friday, November 14, has the US cutting Tariffs on 200+ Items. More specifically, the levies that Trump placed on over 200 classifications and eleven categories of agricultural products are now exempt. Some of these food products include beef, coffee, avocados, cashew nuts, tomatoes, and more. On April 5, 2025, Trump began enforcing a 10% baseline tax on all imports into the US. He imposed them under the IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) declaring it a national emergency. The recent order will remove specific agricultural goods from the reciprocal tariffs. This article explains the purpose of the exemption and what it will mean for international shipping.
Why is the US Exempting Tariffs On Agricultural Products?
President Trump’s main reason for the tariff rollback is the administration’s progress on numerous trade deals. Since imposing tariffs, the US has reached “framework” deals with agricultural-producing countries such as Guatemala, Brazil, Thailand, and Vietnam. Trump’s original goal in imposing levies was to reduce trade imbalances and address unfair trade practices. An online fact sheet by the Trump Administration noted, “President Trump’s tariff policies have delivered significant and lasting wins for the American people through fair, tough, and strategic trade negotiations, strengthening the US economy and national security while breaking down unfair trade barriers that have harmed American workers for decades.” The new exemptions will begin on November 13 for goods entering the US for consumption, with importers eligible for refunds.
Another reason for the rollback was a response to rising product costs. The tariffs raised the price of imports into the US, which was passed through the supply chain to customers. Trump also imposed tariffs to bring manufacturing back to the US and boost the economy. It had the opposite effect, causing slight inflation and having an opposite effect of increasing manufacturers’ costs. In the last few months, businesses have also pressured the Trump administration, noting that tariffs were hurting supply chains. Critics of the administration believe the rollback is intended to address public discontent before the 2026 midterm elections.
What Can Shippers Expect With The US Cutting Tariffs on 200+ Items?
The most significant impact of tariff cuts would be a decrease in import costs into the US. In turn, this could lead to an increase in imports of agricultural goods from countries previously affected by the levies. Businesses that ship large quantities of goods, such as beef and coffee, will benefit from lower expenses. Domestic shipping will also be affected by the exemption, since trucks typically transport imports to their final destinations. While the rollback may create flexibility, it is not a complete abandonment of tariffs. The Supreme Court will make the final decision on its legality, possibly by mid-2026.
With the amount of tariffs exempted by the executive order, it may be more attractive to import agricultural products. Shippers still should be aware of what to expect when bringing goods into the US. Not understanding the customs clearance process can result in delays and monetary loss. An ideal way to begin is to reach out to a customs broker. Brokers are individuals or corporations that facilitate cargo movement across international borders, calculating duties, handling documentation, and more. In the US, brokers ensure compliance with the CBP (Customs and Border Protection). Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9456 to speak with a broker about clearing your goods through customs.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Nov 5, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Tariffs
A legal dispute between President Trump and the US appeals court continues, with the Supreme Court arguments starting today. The Supreme Court heard a case regarding Trump’s IEEPA (IEEPA Emergency Economic Powers Act) tariffs. Two federal courts have recently ruled the levies illegal after a 7-4 decision. The ruling was that Trump exceeded his authority and could not issue tariffs without explicit congressional approval. Oppositely, the Trump Administration argued that the levies are justified under the IEEPA, citing national security as a reason. After the ruling, the president requested an immediate review, and the Supreme Court agreed to an expedited timeline. The case will also concern specific tariffs that Trump imposed on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada.
What Happened During The Oral Arguments?
During the oral arguments, the Supreme Court heard statements from representatives on both sides of the tariffs issue. Solicitor General D. John Sauer argued first on behalf of the Trump Administration. His primary argument was that the tariffs were not designed to raise revenue but to regulate foreign powers. He noted, “The fact that they raise revenue is only incidental.” His argument received an objection from Justice Sonia Sotomayor, noting how President Trump boasted about the tariff’s revenue multiple times. Justice Elena Kagan further noted how the power to tax and regulate foreign commerce belongs to Congress, not the president. Roberts also pressed the court on whether tariffs on imports are an executive power or belong to Congress.
The Supreme Court also heard the argument challenging Trump’s tariffs. Neil Katyal, a lawyer for small businesses against the levies, argued that Trump’s interpretation of IEEPA is flawed. Katyal also stated, “Tariffs are taxes. They take dollars from Americans’ pockets and deposit them in the US Treasury. Our founders gave that taxing power to Congress alone.” During the hearing, various justices questioned whether the reasons for imposing the tariffs met the threshold established under the IEEPA. Some of these reasons include trade deficits and the importation of drugs. The tariffs will remain in place while the final decision is expected to be made in mid-2026.
What Could Shippers Expect As The Supreme Court Arguments Start?
With the oral arguments beginning, shippers should be aware of how the outcome will impact their shipment. If the Supreme Court rules in favor of Trump’s tariffs, the cost of importing into the US could increase. Presidential powers could also expand if the levies remain in place, allowing for unilateral tariff enforcement. If the court strikes down the tariffs, importers may be eligible for billions in refunds. A ruling against the tariffs could also reduce the presidential powers. Even if the court rules the levies illegal, Trump has other options for imposing taxes allowed by Congress. The Supreme Court’s final ruling on the case could be expected before the end of June 2026.
Although the Supreme Court’s ruling will have a significant impact on shipping, it should not halt cargo movement. Shippers should, however, take the necessary steps to prevent potential supply chain disruptions and successfully transport their cargo. In addition to staying current with regulations, speaking to a customs broker is an ideal way to prepare. Brokers are licensed professionals who facilitate the clearance of imports across the country’s borders. They accomplish this by providing services such as calculating duties, preparing documents, filing entries, offering consultation, and more. In the US, they ensure compliance with the CBP (Customs and Border Protection). Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9456 to speak to our brokers regarding importing anywhere internationally.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Oct 23, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Tariffs
While less talked about than large corporations importing into the US, shippers have seen the IEEPA tariffs impact small importers. Smaller and mid-sized importers like mom-and-pop stores have suffered significantly from President Trump’s IEEPA taxes. Earlier this year, Trump used the IEEPA (International Emergency Economic Powers Act) to impose reciprocal levies for most US importers. After an appeals court ruled the levies Illegal, the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case on an expedited schedule. With the case going to the Supreme Court next month, smaller importers have a high level of uncertainty. This article will explain the potential impact on smaller importers and how to protect their cargo during this time.
How Are The IEEPA Tariffs Impacting Small Importers?
The impact of Trump’s IEEPA tariffs on small to mid-sized importers may depend on the Supreme Court’s final ruling. Shippers could be eligible for a refund if the court decides the tariffs are illegal. However, many would not qualify for a refund because they:
- Didn’t file a protest within 180 days of liquidation.
- Had no visibility into when CBP finalized entry liquidation.
- Lacked legal counsel or customs guidance.
A primary argument from the appeals court is that the president is unlawfully using the IEEPA to impose tariffs. The belief is that although Trump can allow tariffs during an emergency, he cannot impose them without definite congressional approval.
The Supreme Court’s ruling could decide whether smaller importers are eligible for refunds and whether they can survive. If the court rules in Trump’s favor, the cost of importing could continue to rise. The presidential powers may also expand, meaning that Trump may be able to impose more tariffs, further raising costs. For a smaller importer, a 25% tax increase can tighten margins and increase fees to the point of disruption. Unlike smaller shippers, larger multinational corporations tend to have enough capital reserve to absorb fluctuating tariffs. Countries affected by the tariffs could respond by imposing retaliatory levies, which can further impact the shipper.
What Steps Can The Smaller Importers Take To Protect Their Cargo?
Due to the impact of the IEEPA tariffs on smaller importers, the shipper must prepare beforehand. Shippers should plan for worst-case scenarios regardless of the final ruling to navigate the uncertainty. If the tariffs are invalidated, they should work with a broker to file a protest on time to get refunded. If Trump’s tariffs stay, the smaller-sized shipper may have to adjust pricing or diversify sourcing. This could include shipping from a country less impacted by Trump’s taxes or, if possible, bringing manufacturing back to the US and shipping the cargo domestically. Importing in bulk can also assist in lessening importation costs.
Situations like tariffs can disrupt the supply chain process when importing into the US. While they should not stop cargo flow, shippers should take precautions to prevent disruptions. An ideal way to start is by contacting a customs broker. Brokers are licensed individuals or corporations who arrange the customs clearance process on behalf of the importer. They do this by ensuring that the shipment follows the laws and regulations of the country of import. In the US, they ensure compliance with the Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Brokers also provide other services like documentation, calculating duties, filing ISFs, etc. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9456 to speak to our brokers and discuss a successful importation with our broker.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Oct 2, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Shipping Logistics
Shippers that bring goods into and out of the US could soon feel the effect as the government shutdown begins. On October 1, Congress disagreed on an operations funding bill, leading to the US government shutting down. When this happens, it can cause widespread disruptions for Americans and the economy in numerous ways. Along with impacting different sectors, a shutdown would directly impact international and domestic shipping. For example, it will affect the CBP (Customs and Border Protection), part of the Department of Homeland Security. This article will explain the impact of a government shutdown on cargo movement and how to protect your shipment.
What Can International Shipping Expect as the Government Shutdown Begins?
One of the most significant effects of a government shutdown on international shipping is increased delays. When this happens, the government will furlough or send home up to 750,000 federal workers without pay. While CBP officials are “essential,” ports will remain open; however the shutdown could furlough other workers, resulting in delays. An example is the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) workers, who may have to inspect certain imports before customs release. Many FDA workers are not essential, meaning the government could temporary discharge them, and fewer staff may lengthen customs clearance. During the last government shutdown in December 2018, delays rose by nearly 20% in the port of Los Angeles.
Delays can have further implications for supply chains, particularly for importers of perishables and pharmaceutical products with limited life spans. In addition to damaged goods, delays could cause higher costs in other parts of the supply chain. An example is drayage, the movement of goods over short distances, like from a seaport to another location. Nonessential functions may also pause for agencies like the Department of Commerce and the US International Trade Administration. This could further interrupt the shipping process by pausing permits and export licenses for shippers. A prolonged shutdown could further hurt trade and push foreign partners to look for countries other than the US to import from.
How Can Shippers Prepare?
Despite the government shutdown already starting, shippers can still protect their shipments during this time. The shipper must be current with any regulations that can impact cargo movement. Reading news articles or speaking to experts on importing and exporting are ideal ways to do this. Although ports run during this time, importers should prepare for longer transit times than usual. Importing through seaports with less traffic or using alternative methods of conveyance, like air or land, can quicken the process. shippers must file paperwork correctly since mistakes can lead to holdups in customs. If customs clearance is delayed, storing the goods in a bonded warehouse can prevent immediate duties.
When shipping cargo internationally, various situations, such as a government shutdown, can impact the process. While alarming, it should not stop the importation of cargo into the US. However, the shipper must take the proper steps to avoid disruption. Along with being informed and planning, an importer can prepare by contacting a customs broker. Brokers are licensed individuals or corporations who arrange the customs clearance process on behalf of the importer. They do this by providing various solutions like ensuring regulatory compliance, providing paperwork, calculating duties, and more. Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at info@a1wwl.com or 305-425-9456 to speak to our brokers regarding transporting your cargo.
by A1 WorldWide Logistics | Aug 21, 2025 | Economic trends, Importing, Shipping Logistics
International shipping could soon feel the impact as the end of de minimis approaches on August 29. On July 30, President Trump signed an executive order to suspend the exemption for all countries importing into the US. The de minimis is a threshold value below which goods can enter a country tax-free. In the US, the amount is currently $800 or less after rising from $200 in 2016 due to e-commerce. Trump initially eliminated the de minimis for China on May 2, but the current pause will be for every nation. Taxes for imports previously under the exception will now be assessed by country-specific reciprocal tariffs or the international postal system.
Duties for goods imported through the international postal system will now be assessed by ad valorem or specific duty. Ad valorem is a tax based on the origin country and evaluated on the value of the cargo. Specific duty is a fee between $80 and $200 based on the IEEPA rate of the origin country. Trump has various goals behind eliminating the de minimis, including combating illegal and deceptive trade practices. Since packages that fall under this exemption tend to be subjected to less scrutiny than regular imports, shippers have used it to bring in illicit fentanyl and other drugs into the US. De minimis shipments, increasing from approximately 134 million to 1.36 billion in the last nine years, further increased the volume.
What Does The End Of De Minimis Mean For Shippers?
Ending the exemption will directly affect shippers due to the goods that other countries import into the US. The most significant impact of ending de minimis is the higher costs for importers. Every shipment will now require duties, customs entry, and paperwork, regardless of value, increasing the price. Online buyers and sellers will feel the effect with many de minimis shipments coming from e-commerce. Logistics providers from different countries have already paused US-bound shipments due to the challenges in quickly adapting to compliance requirements. Another issue that can arise from returning customs entry requirements is a slowdown in the shipping process and potential delays.
If the shipper is a business that sells products, the higher costs could fall on the customers. Especially with the peak season notably increasing the number of products entering the US. Shippers have already begun finding ways to adapt to the higher costs, including importing in bulk. Consolidating shipments into larger sizes instead of importing thousands of smaller sizes can protect against the price increase. Another solution has been nearshoring production into US locations and shipping goods domestically. Importers have also moved manufacturing to nearby countries like Mexico and Canada, allowing easier importation through trade agreements.
A1 Worldwide Logistics
Shippers must be aware of laws and regulations affecting their shipments when bringing goods into the US. Understanding the various regulations can help prevent potential delays, monetary losses, and cargo losses. Another way shippers prepare when importing into the US is by speaking to a customs broker. Brokers are licensed professionals who facilitate the clearance of imports across the country’s borders. They do this by calculating duties, providing documents, filing entries, offering consultation, and more. In the US, brokers ensure compliance with CBP (Customs and Border Protection). Contact A1 Worldwide Logistics at 305-440-5156 or info@a1wwl.com to speak to our brokers about providing a successful importation.
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