As of November 13, 2025, U.S. importers will face changes to how certain tariffs and duties are applied to their shipments due to the latest Executive Order signed by the President. The order, which is a continuation of efforts started under Executive Orders 14257 and 14346, addresses long-standing trade imbalances and seeks to adjust the scope of tariffs on goods entering the U.S. market. While these changes are primarily driven by national security and economic concerns, they will directly impact how U.S. businesses manage their import strategies, especially in relation to agricultural goods.
What Does the New Executive Order Do?
The President’s latest executive action focuses on updating and modifying the reciprocal tariffs previously imposed on goods imported into the United States. The order is designed to combat persistent trade imbalances that are seen as a threat to national security and economic stability.
Here’s a brief summary of the main updates:
- Exemption for Certain Agricultural Products
Under the previous orders, certain goods were subject to reciprocal tariffs as a way of addressing the trade deficit. However, after reviewing the situation and consulting with relevant officials, the President has decided to exempt certain agricultural products from these tariffs. This means if you import agricultural goods that were previously subject to these tariffs, you may see a change in the duties applied to your shipments. - Modification of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS)
The President has ordered updates to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) to reflect these changes. This means that specific tariff codes could be reclassified, and new duties may be applied to previously exempt products—or vice versa. - Refunds of Duties
If you have already paid duties on goods that will now be exempt under the updated tariff classifications, you may be eligible for a refund. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will process these refunds based on their standard procedures, so it’s crucial to work closely with your broker to ensure any overpayments are addressed promptly.
Why These Changes Matter to U.S. Importers
The underlying purpose of these changes is to reduce the U.S. trade deficit—particularly with countries whose trade practices are viewed as unbalanced. While this goal is long-term, the immediate impact on U.S. businesses will be significant, especially for those dealing in agricultural goods or other categories now excluded from the tariffs.
Here’s how you can prepare:
- Review Your Product Categories
Review the updated Annexes of the Executive Orders, which list specific products affected by these changes. Your customs broker can help you interpret whether your product is affected by the new exemptions or tariff updates. - Ensure Your HTS Codes are Correct
The modification to the HTSUS could result in new tariff classifications for your goods. If your goods fall into a different classification, this could affect your duty rate. As an importer, it’s important to work with a licensed customs broker to ensure your import declarations are accurate and up-to-date. - Track and Update Your Supply Chain
With changes in tariff rates, your supply chain costs could shift. If you’re importing agricultural products or other goods that now fall outside the scope of the tariffs, you may find that your overall cost of goods will decrease. Conversely, some goods could face higher duties. Make sure your pricing and sourcing strategies reflect the latest changes to avoid any financial surprises. - Understand Refunds and Retroactive Duty Relief
If you’ve already imported products that are now exempt from tariffs, you may be entitled to a refund of duties paid. Be proactive in checking with your customs broker and filing claims with CBP to recover these funds.
Next Steps for U.S. Importers
To ensure your business remains compliant with the new rules, here are a few actionable steps you can take:
- Stay in Close Contact with Your Customs Broker: This is key to ensuring your shipments are handled smoothly, especially as updates to the HTSUS are rolled out. Your broker can help you navigate the complexities of the new tariff schedules and ensure timely refunds for overpaid duties.
- Review and Update Your Contracts with Suppliers: If the tariff changes affect your product costs, be sure to review your contracts with foreign suppliers. This could open up opportunities for renegotiating pricing or adjusting your procurement strategy.
- Monitor Further Executive Actions: The President’s order also includes provisions for ongoing monitoring and the possibility of further action. Stay informed about any new updates that could affect your imports and your overall business strategy.
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