Donald Trump’s second term as US President has shaken the trading world, with huge tariffs announced against almost every country.
With these tariff announcements, businesses face constant uncertainty, making it difficult to understand costs and conduct long-term planning. Analysts expect tariffs to remain in place through at least mid-October 2025, regardless of the Court’s decision, meaning shippers should prepare for disruption to persist in the months ahead.
With Trump's state visit to the UK taking place on the 16th of September, be sure to subscribe to our Market Update for all the latest information on any trade deal update between the UK and the USA.
Latest information on US import tariffs
Tariffs against all nations
On 2nd April, President Donald Trump unveiled tariffs on every nation trading with the USA. The tariffs began at a minimum baseline of 10%, with higher rates applied to certain partners. For example, EU goods were tariffed at 20%, Japan at 24%, and China at a staggering 145%.
On 9th April, the day many of these tariffs were implemented, Trump announced all tariffs above 10% would be brought down to 10% for 90 days. That pause has since expired, and higher tariffs are again being levied selectively.
Meanwhile, the US–China relationship remains highly strained. After initial de-escalation in May (30% on Chinese exports, 10% on US exports), reciprocal tariff rates remain well above historic levels, and Chinese goods have been removed from the de minimis exemption, adding significant costs to cross-border e-commerce.
Expansion of critical minerals list
On 9th September 2025, the US Geological Survey added lead, silver, potash, silicon, rhenium, and copper to its list of “critical minerals.” This designation could be used to justify future tariffs under national security grounds. Importers dependent on these materials should prepare for potential tariff hikes.
Legal challenges continue
In August 2025, a federal appeals court ruled tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) unlawful. However, the tariffs remain in force during appeal. Former President Trump has asked the Supreme Court to reinstate his authority, and the case will be heard later this year.
Analysts expect tariffs to remain in place through at least mid-October 2025, regardless of the Court’s decision.
This legal uncertainty adds further volatility for shippers.
Political pressure to repeal tariffs
Senate Democrats, led by Chuck Schumer, have pledged to force legislative votes to repeal the tariffs, citing damage to job growth and rising unemployment. Whether these efforts succeed remains uncertain, but the political pressure reflects growing dissatisfaction with the policy.
Industry-specific impacts
Several industries around the world are being squeezed by US tariff policy:
- Taiwanese orchid growers are struggling with higher import duties.
- Japanese optical lens producers are losing competitiveness in the US market.
- South Korean instant noodle exporters face steep levies that cut margins.
- Indian shrimp producers have been hit with tariffs that threaten export revenues.
These examples underscore the ripple effects across global supply chains — and the potential for knock-on costs for US importers.
Exemptions from US tariffs
Exemptions remain narrow. Some electronic devices (e.g. smartphones, computers) continue to be excluded, as announced earlier in 2025. Certain books and published materials are exempt from April’s “Liberation Day” tariffs, though Chinese hardcover books remain subject to the pre-existing 7.5% Section 301 tariff.
Steel and aluminium exemptions still apply only when products are sourced from US-melted or US-smelted materials.
Tariffs on cars
A 25% tariff on all car imports into the USA (including parts and finished vehicles) remains in effect since 26th March 2025. The policy continues to draw strong criticism from trading partners in Europe and Asia, while also impacting US automakers with operations in Canada and Mexico.
Tariffs on Mexico and Canada
The 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, introduced in March 2025, are still in force — though exemptions under USMCA cover a significant share of imports. Canada retaliated with its own tariff measures earlier in the year, and political tensions remain high.
Tariffs on steel and aluminium
Tariffs of 25% on all steel and aluminium imports remain. The EU has responded with counter-tariffs on key US exports, and trade disputes in these sectors show little sign of resolution.
Competitive advantages for UK exports
Despite the broad tariff environment, UK exporters may benefit from certain preferential rates and historic trade route agreements. The UK has retained some legacy bilateral arrangements that mean selected product categories face lower baseline tariffs compared to those from other EU countries. These advantages, rooted in early trade routes and longstanding commercial ties, help offset some of the broader volatility faced by global shippers.
Food & Beverage
Within this, the food and beverage (F&B) sector stands out as a bright spot. Premium categories such as whisky, specialty beverages, and branded packaged foods continue to attract strong US demand.
In particular, Scottish whisky has been singled out under current US trade measures with a 15% tariff applied since April 2025. While this has added cost pressure, Scotch continues to benefit from established consumer preference and brand heritage, giving it an edge over newer market entrants. Exporters should therefore emphasise brand value and positioning to maintain competitiveness, while also exploring supply chain adjustments to mitigate tariff impact.
Shippers in the F&B sector should also keep a close eye on potential exemptions or preferential arrangements that may reduce duties on high-demand goods.
Advice for shippers with US import tariffs
- Ensure valid proof of origin: Certificates of Origin and supporting supplier documentation remain essential to avoid tariffs being wrongly applied.
- Re-evaluate Incoterms: Clarify contract terms with trading partners to manage who bears tariff risks. Consider whether DDP exposes you to unacceptable cost increases.
- Strengthen contingency planning: Explore alternative sourcing and trade lanes, particularly if reliant on Chinese or tariff-sensitive industries.
- Monitor legal & political timelines: Expect tariffs to remain at least through October 2025, with potential changes following Supreme Court and Congressional action.
- Stay informed: Rapid announcements mean proactive monitoring is critical. Partnering with an experienced freight forwarder with US market expertise helps minimise disruption.
WTA Energy advice
These are unprecedented times in global trade. Shippers should stay agile, diversify supply chains, and engage with experienced customs and logistics advisors to mitigate the impact of tariffs. WTA Energy will continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as new measures are introduced.
