- IncoDocs, Global Trade Newsletter
- Posts
- US Trade Policy Updates: Tariffs, De Minimis, Duty Drawbacks... 🇺🇸
US Trade Policy Updates: Tariffs, De Minimis, Duty Drawbacks... 🇺🇸
Welcome to all our new subscribers and a warm “Ahoy” to our loyal readers. Big changes are happening this week, and we want to keep you in the loop! Here’s your update—let’s dive in. 🪂
In today’s email:
US Trade Updates : 🇺🇸 Tariffs, duty drawbacks, de minimis changes.
How Many? : 🚢 A day in a life of a captain piloting overcrowded ferry boat.
Back At Ya : 🇨🇦 Canada imposes return 25% tariffs on US.
TRADE NEWS
US Trade Policy Updates
President Donald Trump's recent tariff policies, effective from February 4th, 2025, have introduced significant changes to US trade with Canada, Mexico, and China, affecting tariffs, de minimis exemptions, and duty drawbacks:
Tariffs on Canada and Mexico: A 25% tariff has been imposed on all goods imported from Canada and Mexico, diverging from the previous tariff-free movement under the USMCA. Canadian energy exports, including oil, natural gas, and electricity, are subject to a lower 10% tariff. This increase targets issues like immigration and drug trafficking, with the tariffs set to remain until these concerns are addressed.
Tariffs on China: An additional 10% tariff has been levied on Chinese imports, adding to the existing Section 301 tariffs, potentially increasing the total tariff rate on some goods to 35%. This move is part of Trump's "America First" strategy, aiming to reduce trade deficits and address national security issues.
De Minimis Changes: The de minimis exemption, allowing duty-free entry for shipments valued under $800, has been suspended for products subject to the additional tariffs. This means even small-value items from these countries will now face tariffs, impacting e-commerce operations that utilized this loophole for cost savings. The policy aims to curb the entry of illicit substances like fentanyl, with Trump citing the public health crisis as a reason for this change.
Duty Drawbacks: Previously businesses could reclaim duties paid on imported goods that were later re-exported or destroyed under U.S. Customs supervision. However, under the newly imposed tariffs, duty drawbacks are no longer allowed, meaning businesses cannot recover these additional costs.
These changes mark a significant shift in US trade policy, impacting businesses, importers, and consumers alike. While this article provides a high-level overview, it is essential for stakeholders to seek the most accurate and up-to-date information directly from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Regulations and enforcement measures can evolve, and CBP remains the authoritative source for compliance details. For official guidance, visit the CBP website.
Whitehouse full factsheet can be seen here
TOGETHER WITH BILL
Simplify with BILL. Get a BrĂĽMate Backpack Cooler.
We love our customers—and the feeling is mutual! Demo BILL Spend & Expense and get $200 to spend with BrüMate.
“BILL gives me the capability to create as many virtual cards as I want. It makes budgeting easy. I use a different card for marketing, office expenses, etc and can set budget for each. All free, no hidden fees. Makes expense tracking extremely simple.” – Dylan Jacob, Founder @ BruMate
BILL gets you:
Customizable spending limits
Real-time tracking
Scalable credit lines
Take a demo and claim $200 to spend with BrĂĽMate.1
1Terms and Conditions apply. See offer page for details. Card issued by Cross River Bank, Member FDIC, and is not a deposit product.
VIDEO OF THE DAY
A Day in Life of a Captain Piloting Overcrowded Ferry Boat
Explore Dhaka's ferry system, highlighting its role in daily life, trade, and transport. It follows Captain Salam, his crew, and passengers, showcasing challenges like overcrowding, aging vessels, and safety concerns while also addressing modernization efforts and cultural traditions aboard.
TRADE NEWS
Canada Imposes Retaliatory Tariffs on US Goods
In response to recent US tariff hikes, Canada has announced new trade measures, effective February 4, 2025. These actions aim to counterbalance economic impacts and protect Canadian industries from disruptions caused by increased U.S. import duties.
Retaliatory Tariffs on U.S. Goods
Canada has imposed a 25% tariff on $30 billion worth of US imports, targeting key sectors such as agriculture, consumer goods, and industrial materials. The selected products align with a strategy to apply economic pressure while minimizing adverse effects on Canadian consumers.
Support for Canadian Businesses
To assist affected industries, the Canadian government has introduced a relief package that includes financial support, competitiveness measures, and export diversification strategies. The goal is to cushion the blow to businesses that rely on US trade while encouraging expansion into new markets.
Provincial Responses
Certain provincial governments are also implementing countermeasures. In Ontario, directives have been issued to suspend the sale of specific American alcohol products. Other provinces are reviewing procurement policies to prioritize local suppliers over US businesses.
These actions signal a significant escalation in trade tensions between Canada and the United States. While the Canadian government remains open to diplomatic solutions, it has made it clear that it will take decisive action to safeguard national economic interests. Businesses affected by these changes should closely monitor developments and adjust their strategies accordingly.
Invest with the art investment platform with 23 profitable exits.
How has the art investing platform Masterworks been able to realize an individual profit for investors with each of its 23 exits to date?
Here’s an example: an exited Banksy was offered to investors at $1.039 million and internally appraised at the same value after acquisition. As Banksy’s market took off, Masterworks received an offer of $1.5 million from a private collector, resulting in 32% net annualized return for investors in the offering.
Every artwork performs differently — but with 3 illustrative sales (that were held for 1+ year), Masterworks investors realized net annualized returns of 17.6%, 17.8%, and 21.5%.
Masterworks takes care of the heavy lifting: from buying the paintings, to storing them, to selling them for you (no art experience required).
Past performance not indicative of future returns. Investing Involves Risk. See Important Disclosures at masterworks.com/cd.
LETS MEME

Was this email forwarded to you? Subscribe here for update