Updates to Japan-US Trade Agreement
On Sept. 15, CBP released guidance implementing Executive Order 14345 (“Implementing the United States-Japan Agreement”). Importers of Japanese-origin goods should be aware of the following:
- Baseline 15% tariff: Nearly all Japanese imports are now subject to a 15% ad valorem duty unless the normal Column 1 duty rate is already 15% or higher (in which case no additional duty applies).
- Effective date: This applies to entries on or after Aug. 7, 2025. New HTSUS codes are active in ACE as of Sept. 16, 2025. We are pending guidance from CBP on how to retroactively claim refunds.
- Automobiles and auto parts from Japan: These now carry a 15% flat duty unless their Column 1 rate is already 15% or higher.
- Section 232 products: Japanese goods subject to Section 232 remain exempt from reciprocal tariffs on the steel or aluminum value of the goods.
Section 232 on Steel and Aluminum—Upcoming Inclusions Window
The Department of Commerce will open the next submission period for adding products to the Section 232 steel and aluminum tariff list from Sept. 15-29, 2025. During this time, interested parties may request that articles containing steel or aluminum be included. The proposed Federal Register notice can be read here.
- Submission period: Sept. 16-29, 2025
- Public comment period: Sept. 30 to Oct. 14, 2025
- Decisions issued: By Nov. 28, 2025, with tariffs expected to be applied shortly after decisions are announced
Importers should be aware that new inclusions may take effect with little or no advance notice, as occurred in the first round when 407 tariff subheadings were added immediately. Companies importing goods containing any steel or aluminum that are not currently subject to Section 232 tariffs should closely monitor this process.
Mandatory Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) E-Filing Coming Soon
Beginning July 8, 2026, importers of regulated consumer products will be required to electronically file certificates of compliance at the time of entry. If you are unsure if your products are subject to CPSC, please use their Regulatory Robot.
Key dates to note:
- July 8, 2026: E-filing requirement begins for most imported consumer products.
- Jan. 8, 2027: E-filing requirement expands to products imported from foreign trade zones (FTZs).
These changes were outlined in the final rule published by the Federal Register on Jan. 8, 2025. Importers should begin preparing now to ensure compliance well before the deadline.
Why You Must Report Related Party Transactions to CBP
When you import goods, CBP needs to know if the buyer and seller are “related parties.” This is because the relationship could influence the price paid for the goods, which directly affects the customs value and the duties owed. Transparency ensures that CBP can verify whether the declared value is accurate and meets the requirements under U.S. Customs valuation law.
Who counts as “related”?
Under 19 CFR 152.102, parties are considered related if they fall into any of the following categories:
- Immediate family members (siblings, parents, children, spouse)
- An organization and its officers or directors
- Two organizations where the same individuals serve as officers or directors
- Business partners
- Employer and employee
- Any person owning, controlling or holding 5% or more of an organization’s voting shares
- Any persons or entities under common control
Krieger Worldwide Announces International Trade Council Award Recognition
Krieger Worldwide is honored to once again be nominated for an industry award as we celebrate its 60th anniversary this year! With decades of experience in freight forwarding and logistics, Krieger’s team continues to deliver reliable, efficient and innovative solutions that empower companies to thrive in global markets.
