US Tariffs Add Supply Chain Uncertainty
Businesses trading with the United States are facing another change to the country’s tariff regime, following the introduction of new duties covering 60 of its largest trading partners.
The new measures took effect on 24 July 2026 under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. They generally apply tariffs of 10% or 12.5%, depending on the country and product, with certain goods exempt. The countries affected account for around 99.4% of US imports and include the UK, China and members of the European Union.
What importers need to know:
Tariffs of 10% or 12.5% now apply to goods from 60 economies, subject to product-specific exemptions and arrangements.
The UK is among the economies subject to the 10% Section 301 rate.
The measures took effect at 12:01am Eastern Time on 24 July 2026.
Importers may see changes to landed costs, customs requirements and sourcing decisions.
The new tariffs are already facing legal challenges in the US courts.
The change follows a US Supreme Court ruling on 20 February 2026 that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, didn’t give the President authority to impose tariffs. A temporary 10% import surcharge was subsequently introduced under Section 122 from 24 February. However, that authority is limited to 150 days without an extension by Congress, and the surcharge expired on 24 July.
The new Section 301 tariffs are officially intended to address concerns over trading partners that don’t prohibit, or effectively enforce prohibitions on, imports produced using forced labour.
There’s still some legal uncertainty. Two US small businesses filed a challenge on the day the new tariffs took effect, arguing that the administration exceeded its authority and hadn’t established sufficiently specific unfair trade practices.
For businesses moving goods into the US, it’s another development that could affect landed costs, customs planning and future supply chain decisions.
If you’re unsure how the changes could affect your shipments, speak to your local Advantage Worldwide office for the latest guidance.
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