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Maersk has issued a critical advisory regarding sweeping tariff changes between the U.S., China, and EU, effective immediately. These changes create unprecedented trade barriers, with cumulative tariffs reaching 145% on some U.S.-China trade lanes, while the EU prepares retaliatory measures against U.S. exports.

Key Updates

1. U.S. Tariffs on Chinese Goods (Effective April 9, 2025)

• 34% reciprocal tariff

• 20% IEEPA national security tariff

• 7.5-25% existing 301 tariffs

• New 50% tariff under Section 301

• Stacked with existing duties:

• Potential cumulative rate: Up to 145%

• Impacts: Dramatic cost increases, complex customs clearance

2. China's Retaliation (Effective April 10, 2025)

• Increased tariffs from 34% to 84% on all U.S.-origin imports

• Full implementation per China Customs Announcement 2025-4

• Covers all categories including agricultural and tech products

3. EU Countermeasures (Effective April 15, 2025)

• Two-phase response to U.S. steel/aluminum tariffs:

• Final details pending EU Commission approval

1. Reinstatement of paused 2018/2020 tariffs

2. New tariffs targeting €18B+ of U.S. exports

Immediate Supply Chain Impacts

• Cost surges: Effective rates may exceed product values

• Operational challenges:

• Complex multi-tier duty calculations

• Potential customs clearance delays

• Contractual disputes over cost allocation

• Market shifts:

• Urgent supply chain reconfiguration

• Increased transshipment through third countries

Recommended Actions

1. Tariff Assessment:

• Conduct immediate HS code review

• Calculate new landed costs

• Model cumulative duty scenarios

2. Contract Review:

• Verify INCOTERMS applicability

• Assess force majeure provisions

• Renegotiate cost-sharing clauses

3. Contingency Planning:

• Explore alternative sourcing

• Evaluate ASEAN/Mexico transshipment

• Consider bonded warehouse strategies

4. Documentation:

• Ensure precise origin documentation

• Prepare for enhanced customs scrutiny

• Maintain audit trails for duty payments

Maersk Advisory: "These changes represent the most significant trade barrier escalation in modern history. Shippers must conduct immediate supply chain stress tests and develop mitigation strategies."

Timeline

• April 9: U.S. tariffs effective

• April 10: China retaliation begins

• April 15: EU measures start (expected)

• May 27: Grace period ends for pre-April 5 shipments