Trade is Changing, Again – Are You Prepared?
2025 is shaping up to be a milestone year for global trade with some of the most dramatic tariff changes in recent history. New trade measures announced under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act, Section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, and Section 301 are set to increase costs, disrupt supply chains, and create new compliance challenges for businesses engaged in cross-border trade with Canada, Mexico, and China.
Here’s what we know:
- Canada & Mexico: Tariffs on imported goods are rising by 25%.
- China: An additional 10% tariff has been imposed.
- Retaliatory Measures: Canada has announced $155 billion in retaliatory tariffs, targeting industries such as food & beverage, automobiles, aerospace, and consumer goods. Mexico and China are expected to follow suit.
- 30-Day Implementation Delay: While negotiations continue, businesses must act now to prepare for the inevitable changes coming March 4, 2025.
With so many unknowns and regulatory hurdles ahead, navigating this evolving trade landscape without expert guidance puts your business at risk. This is where a customs broker becomes an essential partner—helping you stay compliant, reduce costs, and remain competitive in an increasingly complex market.
Why You Need a Customs Broker in 2025
A customs broker helps with compliance, but beyond that they are a strategic partner who helps your business adapt to new regulations, manage rising costs, and avoid costly mistakes.
With tariffs increasing and enforcement tightening, having the right brokerage partner can mean the difference between staying ahead or falling behind.
1. Tariff Management & Cost Reduction Strategies
As duty rates shift and new tariffs are imposed, businesses must explore cost-saving opportunities. A customs broker helps you:
- Leverage duty-saving programs like Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs), duty drawback, and bonded warehouses.
- Ensure proper classification under Harmonized Tariff Schedules (HTS) to avoid overpaying tariffs.
- Remain compliant with changing trade regulations to prevent costly penalties and shipment delays.
2. Navigating Retaliatory Tariffs & Trade Barriers
With Canada, Mexico, and China imposing retaliatory tariffs, some industries will be hit harder than others. ITC’s customs brokerage experts help businesses:
- Identify alternative sourcing strategies to minimize exposure.
- Implement strategies like tariff engineering (modifying product classifications to mitigate tariff costs).
- Manage contracts and landed cost projections to avoid financial shocks.
3. Financial Planning for Increased Tariffs
Many businesses lack the infrastructure to absorb sudden tariff hikes. Customs brokers help you:
- Set up ACH accounts and establish payment mechanisms for new tariffs.
- Work with bond providers to ensure adequate financial resources for higher duties.
- Develop financial strategies to manage cash flow and minimize disruptions.
4. Compliance & Risk Mitigation
With enforcement increasing, failure to correctly declare, classify, or pay tariffs can result in severe penalties, shipment delays, or supply chain disruptions. ITC’s licensed customs brokers help businesses:
- Ensure full compliance with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and foreign customs agencies.
- Reduce audit risks by ensuring all documentation is accurate.
- Implement best practices for import/export compliance to avoid supply chain disruptions.
The coming months will be critical for businesses that import or export goods. With new tariffs, shifting trade policies, and potential retaliation measures from key partners, companies must act quickly to develop a customs strategy that minimizes risks and maximizes opportunities.
Contact ITC today to discuss your customs strategy before these tariffs take full effect.
ITC Diligence International: Your Trusted Partner in Global Trade and Compliance Solutions
At ITC Diligence International, we specialize in helping businesses streamline global operations, navigate complex trade regulations with confidence, and unlock the full potential of Foreign Trade Zones. As international trade consultants with over two decades of experience, our expert team provides tailored solutions in FTZ setup, sub-operator solutions, customs brokerage, supply chain optimization, cargo insurance and bonded warehousing.
By combining deep regulatory expertise with a client-focused approach, we empower companies to achieve cost efficiencies and maintain compliance while staying competitive in today’s global markets.
Your Dedicated Gateway to Global Trade.
