Trade Updates
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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.–Japan Agreement (Critical Minerals and Investment Updates)
CBP issued updated guidance on Sept.15, 2025, implementing the U.S.–Japan agreement, securing $550B in investment and applying a 15% baseline tariff on autos and parts. In a new Fact Sheet, the White House outlines Japan’s Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Framework and targeted investments in energy, AI, electronics, manufacturing, and U.S. supply chains.
U.S. and Cambodia Reach Framework for Reciprocal Trade
The United States and Cambodia finalized a Reciprocal Trade Agreement removing tariffs on all U.S. goods and improving market access. The deal covers digital trade, IP protection, customs modernization, and labor and environmental standards, marking a major step in strengthening U.S.–Cambodia trade ties.
U.S. and Malaysia Reach Agreement on Reciprocal Trade
The U.S. and Malaysia have reached a reciprocal trade agreement to expand market access for exporters, streamline tariffs and regulations, enforce labor and environmental standards, strengthen digital trade and IP protections, and open commercial opportunities across sectors including aerospace, energy, and critical minerals.
U.S. and Vietnam Agree to a Framework for Reciprocal Trade Agreement
The U.S. and Vietnam agreed on a Reciprocal Trade Framework to expand market access, reduce trade barriers, and enhance bilateral economic cooperation. Thailand will eliminate tariffs on about 99% of U.S. goods, while the U.S. will maintain a 19% reciprocal tariff rate and apply zero tariffs on select Thai-origin products.
U.S. and Thailand Reach Framework for Reciprocal Trade Agreement
The U.S. and Thailand have agreed on a new reciprocal trade framework to enhance economic ties. Thailand will remove tariff barriers on approximately 99% of goods, covering nearly all categories of U.S. industrial and agricultural exports., while the U.S. maintains 19% reciprocal tariff rate on Thai-origin goods.
USTR Launches Section 301 Investigation on China’s Compliance with Phase One Trade Agreement
The U.S. Trade Representative has launched a Section 301 investigation to assess China’s adherence to the Phase One Trade Agreement. The review will determine compliance, gather public input, and consider future trade enforcement actions based on findings.
GHY International Acquires W.G. McKay: Two Legacies Unite to Deliver Client-First Service
GHY International has acquired W.G. McKay, uniting two trusted Canadian customs brokerage leaders. With 235 years of combined expertise, this partnership strengthens trade compliance and ensures efficient cross-border solutions for businesses in Canada and the U.S.
Canada Extends Tariff Relief for Affected Businesses
Canada has extended tariff relief measures to support businesses impacted by U.S. and China trade countermeasures. The new Remission Order (2025-1), effective October 15, 2025, expands exemptions for manufacturers, agriculture, and public sector imports while extending key deadlines to December 15, 2025. Importers can access CBSA’s Duties Relief and Duty Drawback Programs for tariff refunds and remission claims.
UPS Disposes of U.S.-Bound Packages Over Customs Paperwork Issues
UPS is destroying some international packages that fail to clear U.S. customs because of missing paperwork. The end of the de minimis exemption has led to stricter rules, causing delays and confusion for customers and businesses.
Canada Introduces Bill C-12 to Strengthen Border Security and Immigration System
Canada introduces Bill C-12 to strengthen the country’s border security and immigration system. It aims to combat illegal fentanyl, organized crime, and enhance asylum processing, export inspections, and law enforcement collaboration to protect Canadians and keep communities safe.
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