Reciprocal Tariff Update #9

USTR Initiates Section 301 Investigation of China’s Implementation of the Phase One Agreement | United States Trade Representative 

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is soliciting detailed public input, including specific examples of China’s non-compliance and estimates of the resulting burdens on U.S. commerce. Stakeholders are encouraged to weigh in on possible responses, such as the scope and level of tariffs on Chinese imports, restrictions on Chinese services, and limitations on imports of Chinese goods.

The public comment period will open on October 31, 2025, Home —along with requests to participate in the December 16, 2025, public hearing—due by 11:59 p.m. EST on December 1, 2025.

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USTR Section 301 Determination on Nicaragua’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Relating to Labor Rights, Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, and the Rule of Law | United States Trade Representative

The USTR has determined under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 that Nicaragua’s acts, policies, and practices related to abuses of labor rights, abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and dismantling of the rule of law are unreasonable and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.  

 In light of these findings, some of the measures recommended by USTR are:

• Increased Tariffs: Impose tariffs of up to 100% on all imports from Nicaragua, either immediately or on a phased schedule over 12 months.
• Targeted Tariffs: Impose up to 100% tariffs on specific Nicaraguan imports immediately, with the possibility of extending these tariffs to additional sectors over a 12-month period.

USTR is currently seeking public comments on whether increasing tariffs or withdrawing trade concessions in certain sectors would effectively address the economic harm suffered by U.S. businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit written comments by November 19, 2025. Home.

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S Korea announces lowering of tariffs as part of new US trade deal

BBC News

The US and South Korea have reached a broad trade deal, both countries have said following talks between their leaders.

South Korea's presidential aide, Kim Yong-beom, said the two sides will reduce reciprocal tariffs from 25% to 15%, as was agreed earlier this year.

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Trump Raises Tariffs on Canadian Goods Over Reagan Advert

Max Matza, BBC

Donald Trump has said he is adding 10% to US tariffs on goods imported from Canada, after the province of Ontario aired an anti-tariff advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan.

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Updates From Rebecca Rizzuti at Progressive Trade Consulting

• The Supreme Court is still scheduled to hear oral arguments on November 5 regarding the IEEPA and Reciprocal Tariff case.
• Trade agreements were announced with Vietnam, Malaysia, Cambodia, and Thailand, with tariff rates ranging from 19–20%. Announcements are available on WhiteHouse.gov; however, final implementation dates from U.S. Customs and Border Protection are still pending.
• The U.S. and China have agreed on a trade framework, with a broader trade deal expected soon. This development has reduced concerns about a potential tariff increase on November 1 for China.

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.