Import duties are taxes imposed by governments on goods brought into a country. These duties can vary greatly depending on the product type, country of origin, and current trade policies. In 2025, the United States implemented sweeping changes to its import duty structure:
- Universal Tariffs: As of April 5, 2025, the U.S. applies a 10% universal tariff on most imported goods (the “Liberation Day tariff”). This is in addition to any existing product-specific tariffs[1].
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Country- and Product-Specific Duties:
- Semi-finished copper products: 50% tariff effective August 1, 2025 (excluding unwrought copper and cathodes)[1].
- Steel and aluminum: 50% tariff globally, except the UK, which remains at 25% as of June 4, 2025[1].
- Automobiles and automobile parts: 25% global tariff[1].
- Reciprocal tariffs for some countries range from 15-40%[1].
- De Minimis Suspension: Effective August 29, 2025, the U.S. suspended the “de minimis” threshold, meaning all imports—regardless of value—are subject to duties. Previously, goods valued under $800 could enter duty-free[1].
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Tariffs by Country (selected 2025 rates):
- Canada: 35% on most goods (select exceptions apply)[2]
- China: 30% (planned to increase November 10, 2025); previously fluctuated between 10%, 34%, 84%, and 125%[2]
- India: 50% on all goods as of August 27, 2025[2]
- European Union: 15% (certain industries may differ)[2][3]
- Brazil: Up to 50% on most goods[1]
- Other nations have varied rates, typically between 10–37%[2].
- Recent Policy Changes: The removal of the de minimis exemption especially impacts e-commerce and low-value shipments. New reciprocal tariff policies aim to match U.S. rates with those imposed by trade partners[1].