As of July 2025, the global trade landscape is shifting rapidly due to escalating tariffs and retaliatory trade measures. For customs brokers and freight forwarders, staying ahead of these changes is essential to minimize disruptions, manage costs, and guide clients through uncertain waters.

U.S. Reciprocal Tariffs Resume August 1

The United States has extended its temporary suspension of elevated “reciprocal” tariffs through August 1, 2025. After this date, 14 countries will face new import duties ranging from 25% to 40%, unless bilateral agreements are reached.

Countries affected include:

25% Tariff: Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Tunisia

30–32% Tariff: South Africa, Indonesia, Bosnia

35–40% Tariff: Thailand, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Serbia

⚠️ Key Impact Areas for Brokers & Forwarders

Advanced Clearance & Bonded Storage

Clients may rush shipments ahead of the August 1 deadline. Encourage use of bonded warehouses or delayed entry options to manage timing and tariff exposure.

Tariff Engineering Support

Review product classification, valuation, and origin criteria closely. Small adjustments can offer substantial duty savings under new rate schedules.

Client Education

Clear, timely communication will be critical. Clients may be unaware of how these changes affect landed costs. Especially those sourcing from ASEAN or South Asia.

Spotlight: 50% Tariff on Copper Imports

A new 50% tariff on copper has been announced, raising alarms for industries dependent on this material—such as electronics, automotive, and renewable energy sectors.

Brokers and forwarders should be ready to assist clients with classification reviews and cost forecasting for products containing copper and related alloys.

Are you prepared?

These evolving trade measures reinforce the value of a diversified supply chain. Many shippers are already exploring alternative sourcing in Canada, Mexico, or the EU. Brokers and forwarders are well positioned to support this transition by:

• Facilitating trade agreement eligibility (e.g., CUSMA, CPTPP)
• Offering visibility tools for real-time landed-cost modelling
• Providing consultative customs strategies to reduce tariff burdens

Support matters: Brokers and forwarders are vital partners in planning, routing, and compliance.

Portway International is here to support our clients with agile strategies and up-to-date trade intelligence. If you have questions about how these tariff shifts may impact your shipments, our team is ready to help.

📩 Contact us today to review your trade routes and prepare your supply chain.

Sources:

https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/trumps-tariff-deadline-delay-brings-hope-confusion-trade-partners-businesses-2025-07-08/?utm_

https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/sterling-gains-broadly-trump-unveils-tariff-specifics-2025-07-08/?utm

https://www.reuters.com/business/tariffs/

https://www.nnrglobal.com/insight/higher-reciprocal-tariffs-suspended-until-aug-1/?utm

https://globalnews.ca/news/11279853/donald-trump-tariffs-copper-pharmaceuticals/?utm

https://apnews.com/article/trump-tariffs-countries-letters-166230b4fa2be33ece1825322b34ff6a?utm

https://www.reuters.com/world/china/global-markets-view-usa-2025-07-08/?utm_source

https://www.reuters.com/world/eus-von-der-leyen-had-good-exchange-with-trump-over-phone-commission-says-2025-07-07/?utm