Newsletter | August 2025 | EU–US Trade Deal
TOP NEWS
On July 27th, the Trump Administration announced a deal with the EU imposing tariffs of 15% on most goods entering the US from Europe. As of August 1st, the 15% blanket tariff will cover most US imports. The US will have a 0% tariff for some items including equipment for US manufacturing and generic medicines. The US will keep in place a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum, with future plans for a quota system.
While the recent EU–US trade deal includes sweeping tariff changes, duty drawback remains a key tool for businesses navigating the new landscape.
DID YOU KNOW…
Starting August 1st, the U.S. is imposing a 50% tariff on imports of semi-finished copper products like pipes, wires, rods, sheets, and tubes, as well as copper-intensive derivative goods such as fittings, cables, and electrical components. The 50% tariff shall not apply to products subject to the autos/parts Section 232 tariffs or raw copper materials and copper scrap. Further, this new 50% tariff is not eligible for duty drawback.
MORE TARIFF NEWS
As of August 29th, the U.S. will suspend the de minimis exemption that allowed duty-free entry for goods valued under $800. This means no more duty-free treatment for low-value imports from any country. This will apply to commercial shipments, especially those outside the international postal system. Over 1.36 billion de minimis shipments enter the U.S. each year. Importers can expect a six-month phase-in that will apply simplified duties ($80–$200 per item), then shift to ad valorem tariffs based on country of origin.
