Current tariff overview:
Country/Coverage  Tariff  Date active  Broad exemptions
Mexico 25% 4 March  Imports under USMCA
Canada 25% 4 March  Imports under USMCA
China 30% 14 May Product exemptions
China, De minimis shipments (under USD 800) 54% of their value or USD 100 per item (USD 200 per item after 1 June) 2 May  
Reciprocal - Universal 10% 5 April Product exemptions
Reciprocal - EU 20% July Product exemptions
Reciprocal - Other countries 11%-50% July Product exemptions
Steel & aluminium 50% 4 June Specific exemptions
Automotive 25% 3 April TBD
Pharmaceuticals TBD TBD  
Semiconductors TBD TBD  
Aircraft and parts TBD TBD  
Tariffs double as fight escalates

On 4 June, US tariffs on imported steel and aluminium doubled from 25% to 50%, escalating trade tensions and drawing sharp responses from industry and trading partners.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration’s broader tariff strategy under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) is facing setbacks in court. Two federal courts have ruled the IEEPA tariffs unlawful. Although those rulings are temporarily stayed, importers must continue paying duties. A Federal Circuit decision on a longer stay is expected later this month. The litigation is widely expected to reach the Supreme Court, with implications for refund claims, future tariff authority, and ongoing negotiations with the EU and China ahead of the 9 July deadline.

HS vs. HTS – what's the difference?

The Harmonised System (HS) is the global baseline for classifying traded goods using a 6-digit code. The US builds on this by adding four additional digits to create the 10-digit Harmonised Tariff Schedule (HTS) code, which determines the actual duty rate applied to imports.

  • The first 6 digits (HS) are harmonised internationally.
  • The last 4 digits (HTS) are US-specific and define tariff rates.
  • Even if products share the same HS code globally, the applicable tariffs can differ depending on the country’s specific rules.
Who’s responsible—and how to limit risk

The importer of record is legally responsible for using the correct HTS code. Misclassification can result in penalties, delays, denied entry, or lost import certification. To mitigate this:

  • Apply reasonable care by researching the appropriate code and documenting your process. 
  • Use certified customs broker input as support and guidance, but be aware that their advice is not legally binding. 
  • For certainty, request a binding ruling from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), which locks in the correct classification.

While binding rulings offer protection, reclassification may still be possible — especially if a product was previously misclassified or if an alternative classification can be reasonably justified based on its essential character, composition, or use. Other aspects, such as considering country of origin of your products and delivery terms that reflect the cost and risk you are prepared to take, are important. Consider reviewing your contracts where needed.

CBP enforcement and common discrepancies

CBP has broad authority to audit and reclassify shipments — and importers should not underestimate their role in determining the final tariff rate. Discrepancies often arise due to vague product descriptions, inconsistent documentation, or minor variations in product design. Even if an importer assigns an HTS code in good faith, CBP has the final say. Their assessment can differ — especially without a binding ruling — and outcomes may vary depending on the port of entry, local procedures, and the individual assessments. Although rare, CBP rulings can be appealed.

Importers dealing with complex supply chains or sensitive products should secure expert guidance and consider obtaining binding rulings in advance. This helps reduce the risk of reclassification and unexpected costs, while ensuring more consistent treatment across different customs ports.

Classification matters – stay competitive on US tariffs It is important for Swedish companies affected by US tariffs to monitor how competitors and industry peers classify their products. Even small differences in tariff classification can create significant advantages—or disadvantages—in pricing and market access.

If you need to get in touch with a US-based customs broker for support with classification or import procedures, feel free to reach out to us. For practical support with export operations and compliance, Business Sweden’s Trade & Invest Facilitation team helps Swedish companies navigate customs regulations, Free Trade Agreements, Incoterms, logistics, financing options, and local e-commerce rules. If you need assistance developing or adapting your export processes under the rapidly changing trade environment, please contact Elin Hagberg or Helena Kohlström Zegel.

What to look for next week
  • Progress (or lack thereof) in EU–US and China–US negotiations ahead of the 9 July deadline 
  • Impact and early reactions to the new 50% steel and aluminium tariffs 
  • Developments in the IEEPA tariff litigation ahead of the 9 June response deadline, and potential Federal Circuit or Supreme Court action
  • Investigation progress into Section 232 tariffs—public comment period closed 4 June, with tariff decisions expected by 19 July; affected sectors include pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, engines, vehicles, and industrial components
Get in touch

Business Sweden has extensive experience in tariff scenario analyses, localisation evaluations, and supplier assessments. If you need support in assessing your supply chain or navigating the impact of these tariffs on your US operations, please contact Johan Karlberg or Peter Ekdahl.

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