U.S. Customs and Border Patrol published a notice that the goods would be exempted from Trump's "reciprocal" 10% tariffs globally, and the 125% tariff targetting China. The shift leaves in place an earlier 20% tariff on goods from China.

The order directs Federal agencies to discontinue the duty-free de minimis treatment for products from the People's Republic of China (PRC), including Hong Kong, that are implicated in the synthetic opioid crisis. These products will now be subject to duties as described in the order, effective from May 2, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security, through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is instructed to implement the necessary actions to enforce this order, including potential temporary suspension or amendment of regulations or notices. The United States International Trade Commission is also directed to adjust the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States as needed to reflect these changes.

The order directs Federal agencies to regulate imports with a reciprocal tariff to rectify trade practices that contribute to large and persistent annual U.S. goods trade deficits. It calls for an investigation into the causes of these deficits, including the economic and national security implications, as well as a review of any unfair trade practices by other countries. The order also emphasizes the need to address non-reciprocal trading practices of U.S. trading partners and the impact of their domestic economic policies on U.S. trade.

President Trump announced broad and steep tariffs on products imported by almost all U.S. trading partners, including a 34% tax on imports from China and 20% on imports from the EU.

The order directs Federal agencies to adjust imports of automobiles and automobile parts into the United States, based on a report from the Secretary of Commerce regarding the effects of these imports on national security. The United States Trade Representative, in consultation with other executive branch officials, is directed to negotiate agreements to address the threat to national security from imported automobiles and certain parts from the European Union, Japan, and any other deemed appropriate countries. Additionally, the Secretary of Commerce is instructed to monitor these imports and report any circumstances that might indicate the need for further action.

3/1/2025: EO:Addressing the Threat to National Security of the Import Timber, Lumber. Directs the Commerce Dept. to investigate whether lumber imports from Canada, Brazil, others pose a national security threat due to dumping and other market manipulation.

Proclamation: Adjusting Imports of Steel Into the Inited States. Announces intention to amend various previous proclamations to levy a 25% tariff on steel imports, effective March 12, 2025.

Canada, Mexico Tariffs on Hold for 30 Days.

Finally the Mexicoand and China tariff EOs are published. That’s 25% on goods from Mexico and 10% on those from China. Both close the “de minimus” loophole (goods costing less than $800 were not taxed).

Trump II Signs EO Imposing Tariffs on Canada. Goods from Canada and Mexico get 25% tariffs; Canadian crude oil gets a 10% tariff. Suppose we will get the expected Mexico and China tariffs on separate EOs.

Trump II Slaps 25% ‘Emergency’ Tariffs on Colombia. In response to Colombia’s refusal to accept a repatriation flight landing in its territory. This appears to have beenresolved. Note to editorial staff: Avoid scrambling when Trump II makes a threat and allow the situation to evolve into an actual event and not an afternoon’s entertainment.