Trade Updates
We are more than just a customs broker – we’re knowledge leaders. Stay compliant and save on your bottom line with recent updates.
Subscribe!
Stay in the loop, stay compliant! Get weekly or daily insights into all things trade and event invites, delivered right to your inbox.
Section 122 Tariffs Struck Down: What Importers Need to Know Now
On May 7, 2026, the U.S. Court of International Trade struck down the 10% Section 122 tariffs in a 2-1 decision, ruling that Presidential Proclamation No. 11012 failed to identify a true balance-of-payments deficit under the Trade Act of 1974. The injunction applies only to named plaintiffs, so most importers must continue paying Section 122 tariffs at the border while the government appeals to the Federal Circuit.
CBP Launches CAPE for IEEPA Duty Refunds (First Payments to Begin May 12)
CBP launched phase 1 of CAPE April 20, 2026, allowing importers and authorized brokers to file IEEPA duty refund claims electronically and consolidating processing for eligible entries, including unliquidated entries and those within 80 days of liquidation. First payments will begin as early as May 12. In line with this, CBP shared best practices to avoid refund scams.
Auto Parts Self-Certification: What Importers Need to Know
Auto parts self-certification allows importers to declare certain goods under Section 232 automotive tariff rules when products may be used in vehicle manufacturing or repair. Learn HTSUS classifications, eligibility conditions, and how USMCA provisions can help offset duties for qualifying imports under current CBP guidance.
Non-Metal HTS Added to Section 232 Metals Trade Remedy Program
The U.S. Department of Commerce introduced HTSUS 9903.82.01 for products that contain no aluminum, steel, or copper under the Section 232 trade remedy program. The update applies retroactively to April 6, 2026, and may require importers to amend entries previously filed under exemption 9903.82.03 for qualifying non-metal goods.
Section 232 Tariff Adjustment for Steel and Aluminum Producers Under Proclamation 10984 (Updated)
The U.S. Department of Commerce issued procedures under Proclamation 10984 allowing eligible steel and aluminum producers in Canada and Mexico to apply for tariff reductions. The program covers imports used in automobiles, trucks, buses, and related parts. CBP guidance clarifies entry reporting procedures for approved USMCA-qualifying MHDVs.
U.S. Adjusts Section 232 Tariffs on Aluminum, Steel and Copper – Full Customs Value Now Applies (Updated)
Effective April 6, 2026, Section 232 tariffs on aluminum, steel, and copper now apply to the full customs value of imported products. Rates include 50% for metal articles, 25% for metal-heavy derivatives, and 15% transitional through 2027. Latest CBP Guidance provides technical corrections under Annex IV of Proclamation 11021, adding HTS 9903.82.01 for non-metal articles.
Canada Restricts Certain U.S. Swine Imports After Pseudorabies Outbreaks
Canada introduced temporary restrictions on certain U.S. swine imports after pseudorabies cases were confirmed in Iowa and Texas. The USDA suspended export certification for raw inedible swine by-products, untreated swine blood products, and raw swine manure. Edible pork products and pork-based pet food remain eligible for import.
Canada Announces $1.5B Support for Steel, Aluminum, and Copper Sectors
Canada introduces a $1.5 billion support package for tariff-affected industries, including a $1 billion BDC financing program and $500 million for the Regional Tariff Response Initiative. The funding supports businesses in steel, aluminum, and copper sectors through liquidity support, productivity improvements, and market diversification.
Canada and Mercosur to Sign a Free Trade Deal this Year
Canada and Mercosur are working toward a free trade agreement that could be signed by year-end after eight years of negotiations. The deal aims to expand market access, with potential tariff reductions of up to 35% across key export sectors, including machinery, chemicals, and forestry. The deal seeks to build stronger trade ties with South America.
CBSA to Repeal Memorandum D10-2-3
As relayed by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers, CBSA identified Memorandum D10-2-3 for repeal as part of its trade memorandum review. The policy covers raw sugar tariff classification, sampling, and testing. CBSA said the information is no longer valid, has low usage rates, and no longer represents a policy issue.
Canada Updates Zoosanitary Certificates for Pet Food Imports from Mexico
CFIA updates zoosanitary certification rules for pet food imports from Mexico, introducing two certificates based on product type. Processed pet food and simple pet chews follow separate requirements. A transition period runs until August 22, 2026, while existing rules remain for select products and trans-shipment imports.
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Reporting Begins July 8
CPSC eFiling through CBP's ACE system begins July 8, 2026. Learn required data elements, filing methods, and how importers can avoid shipment delays.
Reminder: Canada Seeks Feedback on Proposed CSC Reporting Changes by May 4
Global Affairs Canada is proposing amendments to General Import Permit No. 83 requiring aluminum importers to report country of smelt and cast (CSC) data. The Canada Border Services Agency will collect this information through the Single Window system. The proposal is open for public consultation until May 4, 2026.
CAPE and IEEPA Refunds: What We Know Ahead of April 20
CBP targets April 20, 2026 for CAPE system launch to process IEEPA tariff refunds. Learn about Phase 1 eligibility, the refund process, and AD/CVD entry exclusions.
CBP Hosts IEEPA Duty Refunds Webinar on April 17
CBP will host an April 17 webinar on IEEPA duty refunds under the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) framework. The session explains submission of CAPE Declarations, processing steps, and refund issuance. Customs brokers and stakeholders can register for free, with limited seats available on a first-come, first-served basis and CE credits offered.
New China Registration Procedure for Canadian Pet Food Establishments
China revised pet food export registration for Canadian establishments. CFIA now requires a new checklist and registration table for GACC submission. Chinese audits are removed, but CFIA inspections remain mandatory. Exporters must resubmit pending applications using updated documents before approval through the DAPQ system.
Canada Imposes Additional Sanctions on Russia
Canada expanded Russia sanctions under SOR/2026-61 by adding 100 vessels linked to the shadow fleet. The measure restricts services to oil and cargo ships involved in transporting sanctioned goods. It strengthens enforcement against sanctions evasion and aligns with G7 efforts to curb Russia’s energy-driven revenues.
Canada Expands Iran Sanctions List Under SEMA
Canada has expanded its Iran sanctions list, adding five individuals and four entities linked to military procurement networks. The measures target drone and missile supply chains and align with allied sanctions efforts. They aim to limit destabilizing activities while maintaining minimal impact on Canadian trade and business operations.
Canada Extends U.S. Motor Vehicle Surtax Remission Order (2026)
Canada extends the United States Surtax Remission Order (Motor Vehicles 2026), allowing limited relief from the 25% surtax for eligible importers. The order defines import periods, eligibility rules, and documentation requirements. CBSA oversees claims, enforcement, corrections, and compliance checks.
CBP Announces 2026 Quotas for Agricultural, Food, Preferential Goods & Other Products (Updated)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced 2026 tariff rate quotas for various products, including food, agricultural, brooms, apparel, and preferential goods. The quota period runs from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026, and quotas include specific limits and minimum access quantities for certain countries.
Subscribe!
