Trade Updates
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U.S. and India Reach Framework for Interim Trade Agreement (Updated)
The U.S. will apply an 18% reciprocal tariff on select Indian goods, while India reduces or eliminates duties on U.S. industrial and agricultural products. On February. 9, 2026, a Fact Sheet confirmed the removal of the additional 25% tariff on Indian imports tied to Russian oil, with CBP guidance issued for correcting entries.
U.S. Ends De Minimis Exemption (GHY Added as a Qualified Party)
Effective August 29, 2025, the U.S. ended its longstanding de minimis duty exemption for most low-value imports, requiring formal customs entries. CBP updates its list of qualified parties to collect duties on international mail shipments. In January 2026, GHY eBiz was added, providing an integrated solution for compliant, cost-efficient eCommerce clearance.
Trump Orders Tariffs on Countries Trading with Iran
On February 6, 2026, Trump signed a proclamation to expand U.S.' beef tariff-rate quota by 80,000 metric tons, allocating all additional lean beef trimmings to Argentina. This move addresses domestic shortages caused by drought, wildfires, disease restrictions, and declining cattle herds, ensuring sufficient ground beef supply at in-quota duty rates.
Trump Signs Proclamation to Import More Beef from Argentina
On February 6, 2026, Trump signed a proclamation to expand U.S.' beef tariff-rate quota by 80,000 metric tons, allocating all additional lean beef trimmings to Argentina. This move addresses domestic shortages caused by drought, wildfires, disease restrictions, and declining cattle herds, ensuring sufficient ground beef supply at in-quota duty rates.
U.S. Imposes 25% Tariff on India Imports in Response to Russian Oil (Lifted Feb. 7, 2026)
The U.S. lifted the 25% tariff on Indian imports on February 7, 2026, which was initially imposed on August 27, 2025, due to India’s continued Russian oil imports. The removal follows India’s commitments to halt Russian oil imports, boost U.S. energy purchases, and expand defense cooperation, signaling a shift in trade policy.
U.S. and Argentina Agree on Reciprocal Trade and Investment Framework (Updated)
The U.S. and Argentina agreed on a framework to expand trade, investment, and economic partnership, covering tariffs, standards, IP, agriculture, labor, environment, and digital trade. Additional tariffs on Argentine goods are capped at 10% above MFN rates. The U.S–Argentina Agreement on Reciprocal Trade and Investment (ARTI) was formally signed on Feb 5, 2026.
Section 232 Tariffs on Heavy/Medium-Duty Vehicles (U.S. Content Procedures for USMCA-Eligible Imports)
On October 17, 2025, President Trump imposed Section 232 tariffs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks, certain truck parts, and buses to support U.S. industry and supply chains. Tariffs took effect November 1, 2025, with CBP providing filing guidance. On February 2, 2026, USMCA procedures allowed tariffs to apply only to non-U.S. content.
Canada Announces New Preliminary Trade Agreement with China (Updated)
Following Prime Minister Carney’s visit to Beijing, Canada agreed to expanded trade and investment measures with China. Key highlights include lower tariffs on canola and seafood, Chinese EV imports at 6.1% tariff, and joint investment in clean energy, technology, manufacturing, and agri-food, supporting exports, jobs, and stronger economic ties. A backgrounder has been made available.
Additional Guidance on MMPA Seafood Import Rules and COA Filings
NOAA clarified seafood import restrictions under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, effective Jan. 1, 2026. Importers must ensure covered fish and fish products have a signed COA, complete required data, and file electronically through CBP’s ACE system.
U.S. Creates Tariff Process for Countries Supplying Oil to Cuba
Effective January 30, 2026, the United States established a tariff process targeting countries that directly or indirectly supply oil to Cuba. The measure follows an emergency declaration and authorizes U.S. agencies to identify suppliers, set tariff rates, issue guidance, and adjust actions based on foreign policy and national security considerations.
CBP Adjusts Customs User Fees for FY 2026 (Reminder on Broker Permit Deadline)
Effective October 1, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) increases FY 2026 customs user fees due to inflation. The annual Customs Broker permit fee of $185.38 must be paid by January 30, 2026 through the eCBP portal. Missing the deadline will result in automatic permit revocation. Guides and FAQs are available online.
CBP Revamps Forced Labor Website and Updates UFLPA Dashboard
CBP updated its Forced Labor website and UFLPA Enforcement Statistics Dashboard for 2026. The dashboard offers granular shipment data, interactive filters, and visualizations to help trade stakeholders track enforcement actions and maintain compliance. Previous dashboard data is archived, and additional insights are available via the CBP Data Portal.
Forced Labor Portal Now Live (Recorded Webinar Available Soon)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched the Forced Labor Portal on January 21, 2026. Importers must use it for Withhold Release Orders, Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act reviews, and CAATSA exception requests. CBP provides webinars, a quick guide, and an instructional video to help users submit review requests efficiently.
Reminder on Mercury Reporting Requirements for 2025 Activities
Manufacturers, importers, and certain exporters of mercury-containing products must report 2025 activities by March 31, 2026, under Canada’s Products Containing Mercury Regulations. The 2025 amendments introduce revised exemptions, lower mercury limits, export reporting, and alignment with US EPA cycles. Reports must be submitted through ECCC’s SWIM system.
U.S. and Taiwan Reach Trade Deal
The U.S. and Taiwan reached a semiconductor trade deal capping reciprocal tariffs at 15% for most goods and zero percent for pharmaceuticals, aircraft components, and select natural resources. Section 232 incentives favor Taiwanese firms building U.S. semiconductor facilities, supporting domestic manufacturing and supply chain resilience.
U.S. Imposes 25% Tariff on Semiconductors Under Section 232
Under Section 232, the U.S. imposes a 25% tariff on advanced semiconductors, including NVIDIA H200 and AMD MI325X, to protect national security and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. Exemptions apply for U.S. data centers, R&D, startups, and domestic industrial and public sector applications supporting the technology supply chain.
U.S. Targets Critical Mineral Imports Under Section 232
Under Section 232, the U.S. targets imports of processed critical minerals and derivative products that threaten national security. The administration will negotiate trade agreements, promote price floors, and may impose tariffs or import restrictions while federal agencies monitor supply chains and implement regulations to secure domestic production.
Reminder: CBSA RPP Financial Security Requirements Due January 15
Importers in Canada’s Release Prior to Payment (RPP) program must meet updated financial security requirements by January 15. Ensure posted security matches recalculated amounts, review updates in the Client Compliance Portal, and address system notifications promptly. Pending adjustment requests will be considered before enforcement actions.
CBP Publishes 2026 Periodic Monthly Statement Due Dates for 2026
CBP has released the 2026 Periodic Monthly Statement (PMS) dates for ACE-approved filers. PMS allows importers to pay prior-month duties, taxes, and fees in a single statement. Both 11th and 15th workday payment options are provided each month, helping importers plan cash flow and ensure timely compliance with CBP requirements.
CBSA Publishes January 2026 Trade Compliance Verification Priorities
CBSA released its 2026 trade compliance priorities, focusing on supply-managed goods, surtaxes, taxes, and trade agreement compliance. Using CARM and other tools, the agency targets suspected or known non-compliance while adjusting priorities based on risk, revenue exposure, and verification outcomes throughout the year.
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