On September 4, 2025, the U.S.-Japan Trade Agreement was finalized and focuses on improving trade between the two countries. The U.S. lowered tariffs on Japanese cars and car parts from 27.5% to 15% and set a 15% tariff on most other Japanese goods, while some products like airplanes are exempt. In return, Japan promised to invest $550 billion in U.S. infrastructure, manufacturing, and technology, buy $8 billion in U.S. farm products, and spend $17 billion on U.S. defense equipment. The new tariffs apply retroactively from August 7, 2025. Japan and the U.S. are still negotiating on tariffs for medicines and computer chips. Pet products were not specifically addressed in the agreement and will have tariffs set at the current 15%. Please review the complete details in the attached notices.
On September 5, 2025, President Trump signed an order changing U.S. reciprocal tariffs and setting rules for trade agreements. Some products, like bullion, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals, are now exempt from tariffs, while others, like aluminum hydroxide, resin, and silicones, are newly taxed. Pet product importers are likely unaffected, since the changes focused on industrial, chemical, and pharmaceutical goods. All importers should review the changes in the attached notices to understand how they may be affected.
CSMS # 66151866 - UPDATE – Products Exempted from Reciprocal Tariffs
On September 9, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court agreed to expedite its review of President Trump's "Liberation Day" tariffs, consolidating the cases Trump v. V.O.S. Selections, Inc. and Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump. The Court will hear oral arguments in early November 2025, with a decision expected by the end of the year. A significant unresolved issue is the potential administration of refunds if the Supreme Court determines that the President's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and reciprocal tariffs was unlawful. Importers are advised to identify impacted entries, monitor liquidation dates, and consult with trade attorneys or customs brokers regarding options to extend liquidation considering the pending case. Even if the Supreme Court upholds the rulings of the Court of Appeals and the Court of International Trade, the President may still implement other sector-specific tariffs in the future. Importers should remain aware of these risks when planning future purchases, as tariffs could continue to affect trade.
September Office Hours
Join our mid-month live Q&A sessions where members can ask questions and get real-time answers from trade professionals like Rebecca and other experts. Next office hours occur on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at 3 PM ET.
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Progressive Trade Consulting (PTC) provides guidance on how transportation, customs, or other government regulations may affect the Client’s business.
PTC is not a law firm, does not practice law, and does not provide legal advice. The Client should consult legal counsel for any legal matters, including trade compliance.
The Importer of Record (IOR) is responsible for complying with customs regulations and managing the import process. This includes obtaining required licenses and permits, classifying and valuing goods correctly, declaring goods accurately, paying duties and taxes, following import rules, and maintaining proper records.
Sep 10, 2025
