Trade Updates
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Canada Seeks Input on New Trade Agreement Negotiations
Canada launched public consultations on four free trade agreement negotiations with India, the United Arab Emirates, Thailand, and Mercosur. The consultations support Canada’s export diversification strategy and invite businesses and stakeholders to shape negotiating priorities through submissions open until January 27, 2026.
USTR Issues Section 301 Tariff Action on Nicaragua Starting Jan. 1, 2026
The USTR has announced Section 301 tariffs on Nicaraguan imports due to labor rights, human rights, and rule of law concerns. Effective January 1, 2026, tariffs will phase in over two years for goods not originating under the CAFTA-DR agreement, starting at 0% in 2026 and increasing to 15% by 2028. These measures will stack with existing trade remedies, including the 18% Reciprocal Tariff. Importers should review CAFTA-DR eligibility and plan for compliance with new trade regulations.
USTR Seeks Public Input on USMCA Automotive Rules
The U.S. Trade Representative is requesting public comments on USMCA automotive rules to inform its third biennial review. Feedback will address compliance, regional value content, labor and material requirements, enforcement, and relevance to new technologies, including electric vehicles. Comments are due by January 7, 2026, via the USTR portal.
U.S. Confirms South Korea’s 15% Tariff Rate Retroactive to Nov. 14 (Nov. 1 for Autos)
The U.S. confirmed tariff changes on South Korean goods under the U.S.–Korea Strategic Trade and Investment Deal. Tariffs on automobiles and parts are retroactive to Nov. 1, 2025, while other goods take effect Nov. 14. Duties under 15% are capped at 15%, with higher rates unaffected. Update - Changes to Reciprocal Tariff HTS number for reporting 15% duty .
Canada Issues Final Dumping Determination on Certain Carbon and Alloy Steel Wire
CBSA finalized dumping duties on carbon and alloy steel wire from China, India, Italy, Vietnam, Malaysia, Portugal, and other countries. Provisional duties remain until the CITT issues its injury ruling by January 2, 2026, protecting domestic industry during the inquiry.
Have Your Say on CBSA Revisions to the Valuation for Duty Regulations
Have your say on CBSA’s Valuation for Duty Regulations! Canadian importers are invited to provide feedback on revised amendments to the Valuation for Duty Regulations, ensuring fair and clear rules for importing goods into Canada. Participate by email or survey before January 23, 2026, and help shape regulations that impact import compliance, duty valuation, and trade competitiveness.
U.S. Exempts U.K. Pharmaceuticals from Section 232 Tariffs
The U.S. and U.K. reach a pharmaceutical trade agreement. U.K. drugs and medical technology are exempt from U.S. tariffs, while the U.K. increases payments for new medicines. The deal strengthens supply chains, encourages investment, and supports fair pricing for American patients.
CBSA Releases Guidance on Duty Remission for FIFA 2026 Imports
Canada released Customs Notice 25-30 detailing how importers can claim duty and tax relief on goods tied to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The update sets rules for temporary and permanent imports, documentation, eligibility, and new CARM authority codes.
Canada Releases Regulations for Free Trade and Labour Mobility Act
Canada released regulations for the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act, outlining how federal rules will recognize provincial standards, support labour mobility, and preserve key exemptions for food safety and supply-managed sectors. The Act takes effect on January 1, 2026.
CBP Implements Enhanced Air Cargo Advance Screening
CBP implements enhanced ACAS requirements for air cargo shipments, introducing new mandatory and conditional data elements. The Verified Known Consignor program provides trusted trade partner benefits. A one-year compliance period allows filers to adjust. Guidance is available via CBP.gov.
Canada Launches Electronic Export Certificates for Grain Trade with Mexico
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency now issues electronic phytosanitary certificates for grain exports to Mexico. The digital system reduces fraud and delays, supports trade efficiency, and strengthens Canada-Mexico commercial ties under the 2025–2028 Action Plan.
U.S. Removes Tariffs On Certain Brazilian Goods
On Nov. 20, 2025, the White House removed Brazil tariffs on beef, coffee, and other Brazilian agricultural products previously subject to a 40% levy. CBP confirms 238 HTSUS codes and 11 additional product categories are now removed from the tariff list, effective Nov. 13.
U.S. Agricultural Tariff Exemptions Updated – Effective Nov. 13, 2025
The White House expanded U.S. tariff exemptions for agricultural products on November 14, 2025. CBP guidance covers 237 HTSUS classifications and 11 additional categories, including tropical fruits, acai, coconut water, and baked goods. Importers must use designated subheadings for smooth compliance.
U.S. and Guatemala Reach Framework to Expand Trade
The U.S. and Guatemala agreed on a trade framework to strengthen CAFTA-DR. Guatemala will reduce trade barriers, improve regulations, enforce IP and labor standards, support digital trade, and the U.S. will remove tariffs on qualifying Guatemalan exports.
U.S. and El Salvador Reach Framework for a New Reciprocal Trade Agreement
The U.S. and El Salvador agreed on a new reciprocal trade framework that expands cooperation under CAFTA-DR. The deal removes key barriers, supports digital trade, strengthens labor and environmental standards, and sets the stage for tariff adjustments once the agreement takes effect.
U.S. and Ecuador Agree on Reciprocal Trade Framework to Expand Market Access
The U.S. and Ecuador agreed on a reciprocal trade framework to expand market access, reduce tariffs, address non-tariff barriers, and enhance labor, environmental, and digital trade standards while strengthening economic and national security cooperation.
U.S. and China Reach Landmark Trade Deal (CBP Guidance Available)
During the APEC 2025 meeting, Presidents Trump and Xi reached a landmark trade deal to rebalance U.S.-China economic relations and expand market access. On Nov. 4, the White House issued Executive Orders formalizing the agreement. Most recently, a CBP guidance on Nov. 7 confirmed the updated tariff rates, including the suspension of reciprocal tariffs and the reduction of fentanyl-related duties to 10%.
GHY International and Customs Support Group Forge Strategic Global Partnership
GHY International partners with Europe’s Customs Support Group to provide seamless, cross-border customs brokerage and trade compliance solutions. This strategic collaboration enhances global trade efficiency, offering expert guidance and integrated digital support for businesses navigating complex international regulations.
Blending Legacies with Care: How GHY International and W.G. McKay Unite Around People and Service
GHY International’s acquisition of W.G. McKay is about continuity, care, and collaboration—blending two legacies with 235 years of combined customs brokerage experience. Clients can expect the same trusted team and processes, now supported by broader resources, smarter tools, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we’re reinforcing a standard of service that keeps trade moving with precision and accountability.
U.S. Applies a 25% Tariff on Imports of Autos and Parts – (Guidance on Duty Offset for Parts)
The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on imported automobiles, light trucks, and key parts under Section 232 to strengthen domestic manufacturing. On October 31, 2025, CBP released guidance detailing duty offset procedures for eligible importers, outlining how to file claims through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
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