The global trade landscape is ever-changing, and 2025 is no exception. For online sellers, understanding the latest trade challenges is crucial to staying competitive and profitable. From new tariffs to compliance requirements, these shifts impact sourcing, selling, and shipping.

In this article, we’ll explore five key trade issues to watch for in 2025. Whether you’re navigating tariffs or assessing your 3PL supply chain, these insights will help you plan ahead and minimize disruptions.

1. De Minimis Changes Could End Duty-Free Imports

De minimis refers to the duty-free threshold for low-value imports, which is currently set at $800 for shipments entering the U.S. However, policymakers are discussing reducing or eliminating this threshold, particularly for goods from China.

Why It Matters:

If de minimis is restricted, sellers will face higher costs on small shipments, making low-margin products less profitable.

What to Do:

• Recalculate your product pricing to factor in potential new duties.
• Analyze your profit margins to determine how much cost absorption or price increase is feasible.

2. Tariffs are Back in the Spotlight

The new administration has hinted at imposing higher tariffs on imported goods, including an additional 10% on Chinese products. Cumulative tariffs could reach as high as 40% on certain items, significantly affecting sourcing strategies.

Why It Matters:

Tariffs can inflate costs throughout your 3PL supply chain, making it harder to stay competitive.

What to Do:

Review where your suppliers source components and look for “Made in” labels.

Explore alternative suppliers in countries with favorable trade agreements.

3. Potential East/Gulf Coast Port Strike

The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance are renegotiating their contracts. A failure to reach an agreement could result in a strike, disrupting shipping operations along major East and Gulf Coast ports.

Why It Matters:

A strike would delay goods arriving at these ports, leading to inventory shortages and order backlogs.

What to Do:

• Talk to your logistics provider to understand whether your shipments are affected.
• Explore alternate transport modes, such as air freight or trucking, and calculate associated costs.

4. New Tariffs on Mexican Imports

Changes to Mexico’s IMMEX program could impose new tariffs, such as a 19% duty on goods imported from non-trade-agreement countries like China. Even small goods shipped via express couriers may face duties of up to 17%.

Why It Matters:

If you source products or components from Mexico, these new tariffs could increase your costs significantly.

What to Do:

• Confirm whether your goods fall under these changes with your vendor or 3PL supply chain provider.
• Assess whether alternative supply chains can mitigate these costs.

5. Compliance with CPSC Certification Requirements

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) now requires sellers to file electronic Certificates of Compliance for regulated goods, including children’s products and clothing. This certification involves detailed documentation, such as manufacturing and testing dates.

Why It Matters:

Failure to meet these compliance standards can result in fines or product recalls, disrupting your operations.

What to Do:

• Work with your customs broker or 3PL supply chain partner to understand CPSC requirements.
• Identify who will handle e-filing and conformity assessments for your products.

Be Proactive and Plan Ahead

The trade challenges of 2025 demand preparation and adaptability. From navigating new tariffs to ensuring compliance with regulations, staying informed can help you avoid costly disruptions. A robust 3PL supply chain partner like ShipSage can guide you through these complexities by offering expert logistics support, transparency, and scalability.

Don’t let trade changes derail your business. Partner with ShipSage to streamline your supply chain and focus on growth in 2025. Contact us today to learn more!