According to the president’s January 12th statement on Truth Social, any country that does business with Iran will face a 25% tariff on “any and all business being done with the United States of America,” effective immediately. While details remain limited and the White House has not yet issued formal guidance, the implications for U.S. importers could be significant.
Below is what we know so far, and how importers should be thinking about this development.
What Was Announced?
In a social media post, President Trump stated that:
- Any country conducting business with Iran would be subject to a 25% tariff on all business with the U.S.
- The measure is effective immediately.
- The order was described as “final and conclusive,” though no executive order or CBP guidance has yet been published.
At this stage, the announcement appears to be part of a broader effort to economically isolate Iran amid ongoing unrest and protests there and follows earlier tariff actions taken under emergency authorities.
Many of President Trump’s recent tariffs—including “reciprocal” duties and others tied to fentanyl enforcement—have relied on the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). A Supreme Court ruling on the legality of those actions is pending.
It is unclear whether the Iran-related tariffs rely on IEEPA or another authority.
Until formal instructions are issued to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), enforcement mechanisms remain uncertain.
Importers should expect possible changes, clarifications, or legal challenges in the coming days or weeks.
Check back for further updates.
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