TradeLane

In recent updates on the Section 232 tariffs on Aluminum and Steel, the President has clarified “tariff stacking” and its implications for importers. This executive order aims to prevent unintended burdens as a result of the tariffs while safeguarding national security interests. 

In an increasingly competitive global marketplace, reducing landed costs without compromising compliance is more critical than ever. One strategic opportunity for U.S. importers lies in leveraging the First Sale for Export (FSFE) valuation methodology. When correctly applied, FSFE can bring significant duty savings while meeting all regulatory expectations from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

On March 12, 2025, the U.S. government enacted additional duties on steel and aluminum products under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Designed initially to safeguard domestic industries by levying tariffs on steel and aluminum products, the new regulations have significantly broadened the range of covered items. Impacted importers must grasp these intricate requirements to ensure proper duty payments are made and avoid potential penalties.

The automotive industry relies heavily on the global flow of parts and components, making accurate classification within the Harmonized System (HS) critical. This complex system of names and numbers dictates tariffs and facilitates international trade, but its intricacies can be highly challenging for automotive products.

Differences that seem minor in a part description may lead to exponentially different classifications and, as a result, wildly varying duty rates. These differences can have significant financial implications for automotive businesses, impacting everything from production costs to final vehicle pricing.

Tradewin is excited to travel to Orlando, Florida, for the International Compliance Professionals Association (ICPA) event. We look forward to connecting with fellow trade compliance professionals, exploring the latest industry insights, and reinforcing our commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients.