TradeLane

In March 2025, the U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on certain goods from Canada and Mexico under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), targeting efforts to disrupt the supply chain for fentanyl and related precursors. For importers, these duties are not just a regulatory development; they are a direct financial hit. Businesses already facing traditional customs duties now need to absorb another layer of cost that could significantly affect pricing, planning, and profitability.

But there is a potential solution: the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

A bonded warehouse, renowned for its secure storage, allows for the deferment of customs duty payment until the goods reach their destination. Large distributors often seek this secure environment as their distribution center. While the usage principles may be similar, each country’s unique management regulations and incentives create comparative advantages to be considered in the decision-making process.

This helps to avoid potential unintended consequences regarding FTA eligibility, providing a sense of reassurance to the business owners, logistics managers, and import/export professionals.

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).

In the fast-paced world of automotive manufacturing, every penny counts. For our client, a Canadian importer of metal brackets (classified under HS code 8302.30.90), a seemingly standard 6% import duty was putting a significant dent in their bottom line. However, a closer look revealed a hidden opportunity to leverage the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) end-use provision, leading to substantial duty savings and a significant boost in competitiveness.