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As US' Trade Policy continues to shift into a protectionism mode, this page will regularly be updated to reflect key announcements made throughout the year. January & February 2025 Summary We have been reporting on regular basis the announcements made by the Trump administration regarding new tariffs, and this is a summary of those introduced in February... 1. Tariffs on Canada and Mexico On February 1, 2025, President Trump signed executive orders imposing a 25% tariff  on all imports from Canada and Mexico, with a 10% tariff  specifically on Canadian energy resources, including oil, natural gas, and electricity. These tariffs were set to take effect on February 4, 2025. However, on February 3, after Canada and Mexico made their position clear, the Trump administration announced a 30-day suspension  of these tariffs as Canada and Mexico agreed to enhance efforts to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the United States. The suspension expires on the 4th March and tariff will be imposed unless significant progress is demonstrated. 2. Tariffs on China The same executive orders from February 1 imposed a 10% tariff  on all imports from China, effective February 4, 2025. This action aimed to address ongoing trade imbalances and concerns over China's trade practices. 3. Restoration of Section 232 Tariffs On February 11, 2025, President Trump signed proclamations to restore a 25% tariff  on steel and elevate the tariff on aluminium to 25% , closing existing loopholes and exemptions. This move intends to protect America's critical steel and aluminium industries from unfair trade practices and global excess capacity. What is coming next? 25% Tariffs on imported automobiles are set to be also implemented although exact dates are yet to be announced. Early in January, President Trump announced plans to introduced tariffs as well on imports of computer chips, semiconductors and pharmaceuticals, which are seen as critical to national security and technological leadership, and aimed to encourage big manufacturers to bring production to the US. Last week (19th Feb), it was also announced fresh new tariffs to be applied next month or sooner on lumber and forest products , and initial thoughts are these may be about 25%. Whilst the UK has not been targeted by the initial tariffs, the Prime Minister Keir Starmer is due to visit the white house to engage in discussions to preserve the strong trade ties between the two nations. On the other hand, the EU has opposed to the US Tariffs and has warned of potential retaliatory measure. EU's position argues how these tariffs can escalate to a trade war which will impact negatively global markets. Many experts warns these tariffs will end up impacting primarily the poorest and consumers both in the US and across the world. End of Feb and March 2025 According to Tradlinx.com , the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued a notice on the first week of March confirming critical details regarding tariffs exemptions, processing changes and trade policy modifications. Some of the key takeaways from this notice include: On 21st Feb , Trump signed a Memorandum targeting countries with the Digital Service Tax, including France, Austria, Italy, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom . This Memorandum calls for a review of these taxes and potential retaliatory measures such as Tariffs, to protect American companies from what Trump's Administration considers unfair and discriminatory practices. Selected Canadian Energy products will be subject to 10% tariffs instead of 25% A general 25% tariff is to be applied to all other Canadian Imports unless they qualified for an exemption De Minimis Exemption Still applies for now for shipments valued under $800 from Canada and Mexico , although this is expected to phase out once necessary enforcement systems are in place. (This is still in place as of 21st March 2025). Businesses will no longer be able to duty drawbacks for tariffs paid on affected goods Foreign Trade Zones (FTZ) Rules Changes for when Mexican and Chinese goods admitted to US FTZs and must now be classified as 'privileged foreign status) meaning tariffs will apply even if goods are further processed within the FTZ. Enforcement of Tariffs despite delay in Notice - CBP begun enforcing tariffs prior to the Notice Schedule for the 6th March. Other Critical Announcements 12th March - US announced 25% tariffs for all steel and aluminium expands to the rest of the world, directly impacting UK products worth hundreds of millions of pounds. According to Sky News, while two rounds of tariffs on China have been enacted, 25% duties on some Canadian and most Mexican cross-border trade have been withdrawn until 2 April at the earliest. Sky News also reported that the business secretary Jonathan Reynolds said on Wednesday morning that while he was disappointed, there would be no immediate retaliation by the UK government as negotiations continue over a wider trade deal with the US. However, the EU has reiterated they will impose counter-measures which intend to impact €26bn worth of US products starting on 1st April 2025. The duties will cover not just steel and aluminium products, but also textiles, home appliances and agricultural goods. Trump's tariff will impact inflation in the EU and likely the UK. 12th March - Expansion of tariffs for steel and aluminium derivatives products: The US Secretary of Commerce will establish by12 May 2025 a system whereby the US will continue to extend the list of steel and aluminium derivatives products subject to additional duties of up to 25%. 12th March - Canada is expected to announce further retaliatory tariffs 12th March which are expected to impact USD$29.8bn worth of US goods will come into force on 13th March. Canada is the largest supplier of steel and aluminium to the USA, announced they are applying 25% reciprocal tariffs on steel and aluminium products as well as additional goods such as tools, computers, servers, display monitors, sports equipment and cast-iron products taking effect on the 13th March 2025. Check the full list of impacted goods here 12th March - EU's Countermeasures to US Steel and Aluminium tariffs: The EU has issued a notice confirming the EU is imposing counter tariffs to what is estimated €26bn worth of US Imported goods from 1st April 2025. The countermeasures will be introduced in two stages, first by the imposition of the suspended 2018 and 2020 EU rebalancing measures, followed by the imposition additional measures package by mid April. The EU has issued a detailed explainer on their countermeasures which can be viewed here and has also called for stakeholders' views . EU and Canada in response to the steel and aluminium imports , have also announced potential tariffs applying to American Whiskey imports as high as 50%. Trump's reaction to EU's countermeasures: As expected President Trump took on social media to respond to EU's countermeasures with additional levies saying the White house will impose reciprocal tariffs in whatever the US is being charged with from 2nd April, and these will be reflected on tariffs and non-tariffs measures imposed on the US. For Canada, this reciprocal measure may likely include dairy products and lumber, whilst for the EU, Trump announced as high as 200% import tariffs on wines. 13th March - Global Freight Rates plunged due to global market uncertainty: The Global trade newsletter announced in its latest edition (13th Mar) that "freight rates across major lanes have plummeted due to shifting trade policies, geopolitical tensions, and carrier adjustments. Analysts warn a continued volatility as supply chain disruptions persist". They also indicated that recent data shows significant declines, specially on the trans-Pacific routes, where rates have dropped by 40% yoy, trend that has been driven by a combination of reduced demand after Lunar New Year, carrier alliance reshuffles, and the ongoing crisis in the Red Sea, which has forced vessels take longer and costlier routes. 20th March - EU postpones tariff response as awaits for 2nd wave of US duty increases: The EU Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security announced the first set of EU's tariffs response to Trump's steel and aluminium duties being delay from 1st to the 13th April. This move effectively merges the two-phase retaliation into one single measure. 25th March - Tariffs on Venezuelan Energy:  The U.S. imposed a 25% tariff on imports from any country purchasing oil or gas from Venezuela, effective April 2. This move aims to pressure nations engaging with Venezuela's energy sector 26th March - President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imported cars and certain automotive parts, effective April 3. The tariffs target passenger vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, crossovers, minivans, and light trucks, as well as key components such as engines, transmissions, powertrain parts, and electrical components. These tariffs aims to bolster domestic manufacturing and are projected to generate approximately $100million in tax revenue. These announcement had led to significant declines in the stock prices of major automakers including General Motors, Ford, Stellantis, Toyota, BMW, and Volkswagen. Canada Prime Minister condemned the tariffs and hinted at potential retaliatory measures. The EU did not welcome the news either but expressed intention to seek negotiated solutions. This latest measure is likely to lead to increased prices for vehicles impacting consumers and disrupting global supply chains. Further information: White House Notice re: Digital Service Tax U.S. Tariffs on China – Executive Order 14195 U.S. Tariffs on Mexico – Executive Order 14194 U.S. Tariffs on Canada – Executive Order 14193 BBC's Trump's tariff trade war: A brief timeline Bloomberg - Tariff Tracking and impact on global trade Domestic and Global Implications These aggressive trade measures have raised concerns about a potential global trade conflict. Industries such as fashion are grappling with the uncertainty of fluctuating tariffs and trade barriers, prompting companies to reassess supply chains and production strategies. The heightened costs may inadvertently boost counterfeit markets as consumers seek cheaper alternatives. Domestically, businesses express apprehension over the uncertainty caused by the tariffs and the prospect of higher prices, leading to significant sell-offs on Wall Street. Major indices have experienced substantial losses, reflecting investor anxiety over the escalating trade tensions. In summary, since late February 2025, President Trump's tariff policies have strained relations with key trading partners, introduced volatility in global markets, and posed challenges for industries reliant on international trade. Sources: White House, Reuters, AP News, CBP, Tradlinx, DOJO Consulting Group, BCC, Sky News, ABC News, Sam Lowe from Most Favoured Nation, Government of Canada, MSN, CT Insider, Global Trade Newsletter, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal, El Pais, Bloomberg HOW TO MITIGATE RISKS AND RIDE GLOBAL TRADE LANDSCAPE UNCERTAINTY It is critical for UK businesses to monitor ongoing policy and regulatory framework changes in order to understand their impact, but most importantly plan ahead. Here are some top tips: Make sure your decision making is data-driven by analysing historical data to assess risks and plan accordingly. Assess your global supply chains and consider diversification to minimize dependency on tariff-impacted regions. Equally, it is important to review supply chain risks for FTZ users and manufacturers working with Mexico. Consider duty mitigation programmes using duty draw backs which can go up to 5 yrs, although also plan ahead as these will eventually phase out. Improving Supply Chain Visibility: Assess how technology can help you gain real-time insights to get ahead and manage potential disruptions. Need help? Get in touch with our team emailing us at international@gmchamber.co.uk

With the EU’s Green Deal regulations  and the UK’s evolving sustainability laws, compliance has become more complex for businesses trading across borders and more so for SMEs. To help UK traders navigate these challenges, we are launching new set of Sustainability Compliance Services  tailored to support adherence to key regulatory frameworks. Our expert in-house team works closely with a network of expert associates to offer you from bespoke hourly support to full compliance and tailored training & consultancy packages designed to help you navigate the complexities of this ever changing regulatory landscape. The below offer a list of what we can help you, although this is not exclusive: EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)  – Ensuring proper carbon reporting for goods entering the EU. EU's General Product Safety Regulation (EU's GPSR) - Ensures all products sold into the EU and Northern Ireland are safe for EU users EU's Deforestation Regulation (EU DR)  – Helping businesses verify and document deforestation-free supply chains. EU's Greenwashing Regulations  – Assisting in substantiating environmental claims to avoid misleading marketing penalties. EU’s Eco-design for Sustainable Products Regulation  – Providing guidance on product sustainability standards and digital product passports. EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting (CSRD) - F ormally adopted by the European Council on 28 November 2022 – is transforming ESG reporting. Requires mandatory sustainability reporting, including non-EU companies which have subsidiaries operating within the EU or are listed on EU regulated markets. UK’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)  – Supporting businesses in meeting new waste management and recycling obligations. UK's CBAM: Whilst this regulation does not come into effect until 2027, UK traders must note this won't have a transition period, and thus preparing now is critical for business operating within the sectors scope of this regulation. Other Emerging UK & EU Compliance Requirements  – Offering up-to-date advisory services to keep traders ahead of regulatory changes. How Our Compliance Services Help UK Traders Regulatory Audits & Risk Assessments  – Identifying potential compliance gaps and providing actionable solutions. Understanding Data Management  – Helping you understand what UK Traders need to document and report for CBAM, EPR, and just general sustainability reporting. Supply Chain Due Diligence Support  – Ensuring traceability and ethical sourcing in line with EU & UK requirements. Eco-Labeling & Marketing Compliance  – Helping businesses avoid greenwashing claims and secure eco-certifications. Ongoing Compliance Monitoring  – Providing real-time updates and proactive regulatory guidance. Future-Proof Your Business By leveraging our Compliance Services , UK traders can mitigate risks, enhance market access, and align with the latest sustainability standards. Stay ahead of regulatory shifts and ensure seamless trade with the EU and UK markets. For more information on how we can help, contact us today.

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) is pulsating – geographically, culturally, economically – and can offer your company the best opportunities for success with a new business location in the European market. The federal state is Germany's economic engine and an international hub in the centre of Europe – in short, Europe's heartbeat. It owes this status to its high population density and its exceptional economic performance – NRW has the highest gross domestic product of all German states and accounts for one-fifth of Germany's total GDP. NRW offers everything you need: talent, sales and procurement markets, cutting-edge research, networks, infrastructure – and a great place for you and your teams to live. It is people that shape the markets: 46 million people live within 200 kilometres of the state capital of NRW, Düsseldorf – more than in any other European region. For your company, this is the most attractive sales, work and innovation area you could wish for. 9.8 million people employed in the state are curious about your company. That's more than in the Netherlands and twice as many as in Belgium. Working towards a sustainable future Germany's strongest economic powerhouse is heading towards climate neutrality. In NRW, you will become part of the first carbon-neutral industrial region in Europe by 2045. Take advantage of the change and drive forward renewable energies, smart manufacturing, and e-mobility. Major goals like these cannot be achieved without highly qualified people: select your teams from around 710,000 students in NRW and more than 111,000 graduates each year. The scientific landscape is also the hotbed for numerous innovations. Europe's densest research network operates in the immediate vicinity of your NRW presence: some 70 universities, 14 clusters of excellence, 60 technology and incubator centres, and 50 non-university research institutions are ready and willing to work with you to develop the products and processes of tomorrow. Institutions such as Jülich Forschungszentrum, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), and numerous Max Planck and Fraunhofer Institutes are waiting to meet your needs for climate protection, traffic flow, or cybersecurity on an entirely new level. In addition, NRW is one of the top locations for startups throughout Europe. Around 20 percent of all German startups are located here. Their innovative business models are driving the transformation of the economy, for example with solutions for the energy revolution and the transition to climate-neutral industry. Benefiting from a vibrant startup ecosystem with digital hubs, numerous accelerator programs, matchmaking, and communities. UK and NRW: a vibrant partnership The UK and NRW have a very special relationship: it was the British government that created the state of North Rhine-Westphalia from two Prussian provinces under the name "Operation Marriage" in 1946. Since then, a friendship und deep economic relations have developed, which have proven to be solid even after Brexit. With a trading volume of 18.9 billion euros in 2023, the UK is a very close economic partner for NRW. This also holds true for British companies in Germany. More than 1,600 companies from the UK are based here securing about 200,000 jobs – including BP, DRPG Group, Dyson, Farrat Isolevel, GKN, INEOS, JCB, Lush, Rentokil Initial, and Vodafone. NRW.Global Business accompanies your settlement process The step into a foreign market must be well prepared – ideally with experienced partners. NRW.Global Business, the state-owned trade and investment agency, is by your side when it comes to investment projects and setting up operation in NRW. Our experts accompany from the first step to a successful settlement and beyond – ensuring a good start in NRW. Get in touch with our office in London for individual services, e.g. with information on markets or locations as well as practical support for concrete settlements and expansions. Author: David Schneider, Representative, NRW.Global Business United Kingdom / London Trade & Investment Agency of the German State of North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) d.schneider@nrwglobalbusiness.uk – www.nrwglobalbusiness.com Interested in learning more how NWR can be your getaway to grow your business in Germany and beyond? NWR. Global Business has partnered up with the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce to host a market event next 21st May in Manchester. Hear from market experts and companies who have successfully scale up in the region. Book your free slot on the link below:

GM Chamber is the largest accredited Chamber of Commerce in the UK offering first class business support. The International Trade Hub provides hand-picked guidance about exporting and importing, free resources, and services. HELPING TRADERS SUCCEED IN INTERNATIONAL MARKETS Welcome to the Greater Manchester Chamber International Trade Hub. The Largest Accredited Chamber of Commerce in the UK. Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce is the largest accredited Chamber of Commerce in the UK, with over 4,200 members. With a HQ on Deansgate in Manchester City Centre, and at the World Freight Terminal in Manchester Airport office. The Chamber cover 10 local authority areas in Greater Manchester but membership also spans across the UK and overseas. We are here to support businesses to thrive in domestic and international markets. For more information about us and how your business can benefit from becoming a member, visit our main website . We have a dedicated, award-winning International Trade & customs team, who are experts at supporting UK & overseas exporters and importers in navigating the complexities of global trade. The team is passionate about delivering information, advice and cost-effective services to help exporters and importers succeed. We offer assistance through every step of the internationalisation journey, from readiness assessments and market identification to customs consultancy and clearance. Explore all the services we offer below. Become a Chamber Member WHY GREATER MANCHESTER CHAMBER? Let Greater Manchester Chamber be your trusted partner for your global success. As multiple British Chamber of Commerce Award winners for 'Excellence in International Trade Services' (2015/16, 2018/19, 2019/20) and a 2023 UK SME Enterprise Award recipient, we have a proven track record of delivering exceptional international trade support. OUR SERVICES GM Chamber works with UK and overseas firms seeking to expand their international footprint. From market identification, market research and partner finding, we are here to help grow with confidence. Connect, learn, and grow with GM Chamber Events. Our rich calendar of events help traders to tap into business opportunities, learn from like-minded businesses and keep up with latest regulations. We run a wide range of practical import, export and customs courses, as well as bespoke training programs to meet your specific needs. Upskill your team and run a compliant global operation. Navigate the complexities of global trade with confidence and efficiency. Our experts offer tailored solutions for customs compliance, sustainability, export controls, immigration, and more. GM Chamber is licensed to offer certification, legalisation, apostille, and notarisation services. Entrust us with your documentation requirements for effortless global trade. Streamline your temporary exports process and focus on closing deals. GM Chamber helps secure ATA Carnets so that you can cross borders with ease and grow your business. GM Chamber is an HMRC compliant customs broker with direct links to all sea, air, rail, and road ports and terminals in the UK. Enjoy seamless customs clearance across the UK. Trading globally can bring big risks and rewards. We offer services through our in-house team and strategic partners, to minimise risks when importing and exporting. GM Chamber has collated guidance from HMRC, and other reliable sources to help you trade with the EU and the world. Gain the tools and knowledge needed to thrive internationally. CONTACT US Address Helplines Chamber Opening Hours Head Office 151 Deansgate, Elliot House Manchester, M3 3WD Airport Office World Freight Terminal Building 308, Room 7 Manchester Airport 0161 393 4321 General 0161 393 4314 Trade Team 0161 489 3170 Airport Office Mon - Fri 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Documentation Service Opening Hours Airport Mon - Fri 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Closed 13:00-14:00) Elliot House Tue-Thurs 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (Closed 13:00-14:00) By appointment only. Please call to arrange. Emails General Membership Queries: benefits@gmchamber.co.uk General Export and Import queries: international@gmchamber.co.uk Customs Clearance: chambercustoms@gmchamber.co.uk Certification, Legalisation, Notary and Apostille Services: exportdocs@gmchamber.co.uk

Brexit EUExit Trading with the EU Export and Import advice in Manchester Export and import training courses in Manchester Customs compliance HMRC DIT WTO trading rules Our hub aims to make trading with the world easier. Take a look to some free resources to help you trade with the EU and the world. FREE RESOURCES FOR MEMBERS AND NON-MEMBERS TRADE OUTLOOK Every quarter, our Head of International Trade, will release a data review and opinion piece looking at the state of international trade. The report will include an overview of global, UK and North West and Greater Manchester trade data (as available), as well as key findings on our recent Quarterly Economic Survey related to exports, and anecdotal data shared from members and customers. Be the first to receive this well-rounded and insightful report by clicking on the link below. Download your Copy HOW TO GUIDES Incoterms infographics - Quick snapshot on how responsibilities' are split between Exporters and Importers Export Action Plan - To help new or occasional exporters with developing a successful exporting strategy Import Action Plan - Helping new or occasional importers developing a sound importing strategy Brief Technical Guide to Exporting infographic Brief Guide to Customs Declarations - What traders need to know in terms of key information needed for customs clearance Download our free guides by subscribing to our hub. Join Trade Hub GMCC BITESIZE & CHAMBERS TRADE ACADEMY VIRTUAL SESSIONS Subscribe to our youtube channels and watch on demand our previous sessions - from basics to export and import to covering some of the latest regulations impacting exporters and importers (e.g. UKCA, REACH, VAT) and much more. We have also joined now forces with wider range of Chambers of Commerce across the UK to bring to you a new initiative ' Chambers Trade Academy' which will deliver similar sessions as our former bitesize sessions. Join our Trade Hub and download the slides from these sessions. Join Trade Hub CHAMBER INTERNATIONAL EVENTS REPOSITORY If you have attended any of our recent international trade events whether face to face or online, you can download the slides and/or access recording links to watch on demand when joining our Trade Hub on the link below. If the session was online, you can check the recording on our youtube channels. If you need a personalised introduction to any of our experts or book a complimentary 30 min with our team, email us at international@gmchamber.co.uk Join Trade Hub INTERNATIONAL READINESS ASSESSMENT Open to members and non-members, complete our 15-min online assessment which will help you understand how 'ready' is your business to go global. Whether you are considering to export or import, our online trade readiness assessment helps you get started by helping you assess your resourcing capacity from a staffing as well as financial point of view, clarity on your strategy as well as knowledge to sell/buy goods and/or services from across the world. This assessment is suitable for new, occasional or experienced traders. Take me to survey FOREIGN EXCHANGE HEALTH CHECK Are you exporting or importing using different currencies? Are you managing your risk from the outset? The Chamber has partnered up with an FX Specialist and offers free non-committal FX health check. Members of the Chamber get preferential rates if signing up for their FX services. CLAIM FREE FX HEALTHCHECK HM GOVERNMENT SHORT VIDEOS AND WEBINARS Watch on demand some short videos from HMRC explaining some of the practicalities of trading overseas : Videos about trading with the EU Webinars about border requirements and moving goods between Great Britain and the EU Webinars for exporters of products of animal origin, live animals, plants and plant products Subscribe to HMRC Youtube channel

Post Brexit support, EU Transition Support, Export and Import Advice, Customs Clearance Agent advice, guidance, information and services, Export and Import training courses in Manchester Freight Forwarder Procedure Workshop Delivered in partnership with 5-1-2 5-1-2 (Manchester) Ltd are the official sponsor of Greater Manchester Chamber’s programme of Export/Import training courses. To enhance your experience as one of our course delegates, you are invited to attend a complimentary Freight Forwarding Procedure workshop to help you choose the best modes of transport and understand your charges. We will cover: Introduction to Freight Forwarding and what a freight forwarder does and why we exist. Detailed introduction to the modes of transport and what determines the best mode of transport for each shipment. A detailed run over of what Documentation a forwarder requires to process shipments smoothly. An in-depth explanation about the importance of Incoterms and how choosing the correct terms could save your business thousands. Open discussions about the charges you should and shouldn’t receive as an importer/exporter. Explanation about a forwarders global reach (Overseas offices, Networks etc) Discussion about Insurance and how important this is for your business. Opportunity for a Q&A session. 5-1-2 (Manchester) Ltd is also offering our delegates the opportunity to participate in a short placement at their office, giving you the chance to see how a freight forwarder deals with your shipments and to learn how rates are calculated directly from their experienced team. We'll be running three dates of the workshops, and they'll last from 10am-1pm - so please note in the form which dates you can make. 29th February 2024 12th June 2024 16th October 2024 Places are limited, so enquire early to avoid disappointment. Enquire or Book First Name Last Name Company Phone Email Workshop Requested: 16/10/2024, 10am-1pm Send We've received your request and we'll be in touch.