Blog Last Updated on August 12th, 2025
Tariff Update – Summary of Changes in 2025
The U.S. has implemented multiple tariff changes in 2025 affecting goods from China, Canada, Mexico and more. While tariffs on Canada and Mexico experienced delays, tariffs on Chinese imports took effect as scheduled. These changes have had significant implications for pricing, supply chain operations, and lead times across many industries.
Below is a consolidated summary of key events:
Timeline of Tariff Actions
February 4, 2025
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New 10% tariff on all goods from China (including Hong Kong SAR), in addition to existing tariffs.
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De minimis rule eliminated for tariffed goods — items under $800 now also incur duties.
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UPS suspends Service Guarantee for shipments from China, Hong Kong, and Canada due to delays.
February 3–27, 2025
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U.S.–Mexico and U.S.–Canada agreements delayed new tariffs from Feb. 4 to Mar. 4.
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Feb. 27: Announcement of 25% tariffs on all goods from Canada and Mexico, effective Mar. 4.
March 4, 2025
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Additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods (total 20% when combined with Feb. 4 tariff).
March 6, 2025
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Tariff exemptions issued for certain goods from Canada and Mexico until Apr. 2.
April 2–9, 2025
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Apr. 2: Expiration of certain exemptions.
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Apr. 5: New 10% baseline tariff on all countries.
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Apr. 9: Reciprocal higher tariffs on countries with largest trade deficits, including:
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125% tariff on 2- and 4-layer rigid PCBs from China.
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150% tariff on all other PCB types from China.
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April 10, 2025
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Additional 20% tariff on Chinese goods.
May 14, 2025
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Reduction in China PCB tariffs to:
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30% for 2- & 4-layer FR-4 rigid PCBs.
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55% for all other PCB types.
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Extra 25% tariff exemption on 2- and 4-layer boards set to expire end of May.
July 9–31, 2025
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Preliminary U.S.–China agreement announced, but not finalized.
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Tariffs for many countries extended until Aug. 1; Section 301 extended until Aug. 31.
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Jul. 31: White House announces reciprocal tariff modifications effective Aug. 7.
August 11, 2025
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U.S.–China tariff truce extended 90 days, through Nov. 10, 2025, meaning no changes to current rates until then
Rising Costs for Logistics Companies
Small-package carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS, USPS) may adjust operations to manage increased customs processing, introducing new costs or surcharges. Warehousing and fulfillment centers will likewise implement new compliance measures, increasing overhead.
Consider for Your Strategy
- Regions outside China continue to face supply chain and engineering delays.
- A potential surge in demand in China could create bottlenecks—timing matters. A sudden shift of production back to China could strain manufacturing capacities, potentially causing delays.
- Review your current open orders and forecasted demand, and start discussions with your customers early to understand their upcoming needs. Based on the latest updates, consider any necessary adjustments to your delivery schedule. Proactive planning now will help ensure you’re prepared and aligned moving forward.
- Consider proactively qualifying part numbers at alternative manufacturing locations to help mitigate supply chain risk. Even if current tariffs make China the lower-cost option, placing a small qualification or MOV order outside of China can ensure the part is tooled and approved, providing a ready backup in case of future volatility. This also helps avoid potential engineering delays and supports greater supply chain flexibility.
Securing Your Supply Chain: MCL’s Strategic Diversification Beyond China
MCL’s competitive manufacturing network extends beyond our China-based facilities to include Thailand, Vietnam, and Taiwan, offering valuable alternatives amid evolving tariffs and regulatory changes.
Why Consider Diversification?
- Lower Tariff Risk: Alternate manufacturing sites reduce exposure to shifting trade policies.
- Continuity & Flexibility: Multi-country sourcing ensures uninterrupted production, even if one region faces challenges.
- Technology & Scalability: Our partners support anywhere from quick-turn prototypes through high-volume orders.
Next Steps
As the situation evolves, we are closely monitoring potential effects on costs and availability. We recommend businesses review their procurement strategies and stay updated on further policy changes. If you have any questions about how these tariffs may affect your supply chain, feel free to reach out to your dedicated Customer Concierge.