U.S. Introduces Comprehensive Tariff Plan

On April 2, 2025, the United States announced a new, wide-reaching tariff policy that will impact all imports entering the country.

The key elements of the plan are as follows:

• A 10% baseline tariff will be applied to all imports entering the U.S., regardless of origin.

• An additional layer of higher tariffs will apply to imports from approximately 90 countries, identified as engaging in unfair trade practices.

Notably, the tariff plan includes a 104% tariff on Chinese goods, which results from a combination of:

• A 50% retaliatory tariff

• A 34% reciprocal levy

• A pre-existing 20% duty

According to estimates by trade experts, the new measures are expected to:

• Increase U.S. import duties by nearly 25% on affected goods.

• Lead to an overall 15-20% rise in U.S. import tariffs across the board.

This tariff strategy is part of a broader effort to protect domestic industries and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The list of countries subject to higher tariffs has not yet been fully published, but it is expected to include several major trading partners.

The plan is expected to impact a wide range of imported goods, though specific product categories have yet to be detailed. Businesses and trade organizations are currently reviewing the potential impacts on supply chains, manufacturing costs, and international trade relations.

As more details emerge, global trade and shipping sectors are closely monitoring the situation for updates on policy enforcement, country lists, and any potential exemptions or bilateral negotiations.