U.S. ANNOUNCES MAJOR TARIFF OVERHAUL: HIKES ON STEEL, TECH IMPORTS; EXTENDS EXEMPTIONS FOR ALLIES

Aug 12, 2025

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🔹 Key Changes Effective October 1, 2025

Steel & Aluminum:

•Tariffs on Chinese steel soar from 7.5% to 25%, citing "persistent overcapacity and unfair subsidies."

•Turkey and India face new 15% duties on aluminum exports to the U.S.

•Exemption: EU, Canada, and Mexico retain zero tariffs under the North American Trade Pact renewal.

Electric Vehicles & Batteries:

•Chinese EVs hit with 50% tariffs (up from 27.5%), targeting "state-subsidized dumping."

•Vietnam and Thailand slapped with 20% duties on lithium-ion batteries after U.S. probes revealed transshipped Chinese components.

Technology and Semiconductors:

•Advanced semiconductors from Taiwan and South Korea reduced from 5% to 0%, accelerating domestic tech manufacturing partnerships.

•Russian electronics face 35% tariffs, expanding sanctions over the Ukraine conflict.

Agricultural Products:

•Brazilian ethanol tariffs drop from 20% to 10% to stabilize biofuel supplies.

•EU wine and cheese duties remain at zero, honoring the 2024 Transatlantic Truce Agreement.

FROM FEDEX.COM, we got some important tips!!!

Essential tips for customs clearance

Commodity description

A clear and precise commodity description, including what the goods are made of, their intended use, the quantity and the country of origin, is important for seamless and timely clearance.

For example, use "women's dresses made of 60% cotton 40% polyester" instead of "clothing".

HS code

The HS code (Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System) is a code used by customs worldwide to help categorize imported and exported goods. For shipment declared in the U.S., a 10-digit HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code is required.

HS codes for textile and apparel products importing into the U.S. can be found here.

Manufacturer Identification Code (MID code)

MID code is used as an alternative to the full name and address of a manufacturer, shipper or exporter and is required for U.S. customs entries for certain shipments. Properly constructed MID code must be shown on the air waybill and commercial invoice for import clearance of certain shipments.

Duties and taxes

Changes to U.S. tariffs may impact the duties and taxes charged on goods shipped across borders. Understanding how to estimate and pay duties and taxes help facilitate smooth customs clearance and prevent unexpected costs to your shipments.

For more detailed information,please visit fedex web or contact us!