AcrossTheTrax - October Edition 2025

"As we approach the end of what is traditionally considered peak season in the logistics industry, our team continues to operate at full speed, delivering the high level of personalized service our clients have come to expect. Recent developments in global trade, including newly enacted port fees by China and the United States’ corresponding tariff measures, have once again highlighted the importance of having both a reliable logistics partner and a trusted source of information.

In times of heightened uncertainty, staying informed is essential to navigating an increasingly complex and shifting trade environment. We encourage all readers to subscribe to the OIA Global Market Report, featured in this month’s edition. Each issue delivers timely insights across key areas of international trade, including market trends, technological innovations, and evolving compliance and regulatory updates, helping businesses anticipate change and make confident, informed decisions." - Betty Robson, Executive Director of JF Moran, An OIA Global Company.

Renewed Trade Tensions with China Over Critical Earth Mineral Restrictions and Increased Tariff Rates

Earlier this month, renewed tensions between China and the United States escalated after China announced a large-scale export control on critical minerals essential to advanced technologies used by countries around the world. The move prompted a swift response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who took to Truth Social to announce an additional 100 percent tariff in retaliation for these new trade barriers if China proceeds with these efforts. The new duty is set to take effect on November 1st unless a deal can be made before this time.

This latest development follows months of trade friction between the two nations, which many had hoped were moving toward resolution. Instead, signs now point to a deepening conflict. The new duties on Chinese imports will apply in addition to all existing tariffs—both country-specific and sector-specific—compounding the already significant costs of doing business between the two economies.

In a parallel measure, the White House also announced forthcoming export controls on all critical software destined for China, scheduled to take effect November 1. With a substantial portion of goods entering the U.S. originating from China, and a significant share of software and related services flowing from the U.S. to China, these policies could have far-reaching effects on consumer prices, manufacturing supply chains, and overall global trade stability. Analysts warn that the dual restrictions could trigger a new phase of economic decoupling between the world’s two largest economies, accelerating shifts in global sourcing and technology alliances. Economists also caution that escalating tariff and export-control measures may reignite inflationary pressures in the United States while slowing industrial growth in China.

Tariffs Set to Take Effect on Medium and Heavy Duty Trucks Imported into the United States

Following a Section 232 investigation launched last April by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the United States will impose a 25 percent tariff on all medium- to heavy-duty trucks imported into the country beginning November 1. The current administration stated that the decision aims to protect U.S. manufacturing and advance domestic development as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen American industry. Most trucks in this category are imported from Mexico; however, those meeting the strict USMCA rules of origin requirements will be exempt from the new duties.

This is one of several recent Section 232 investigations resulting in new sector-specific tariffs. Earlier this month, the administration announced additional duties on timber, lumber, and derivative wood products such as cabinets and furniture. Effective October 14, a 10 percent duty now applies to softwood timber and lumber imports, while kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and certain upholstered wooden products are subject to a 25 percent rate. Beginning January 1, these tariffs will expand to include additional upholstered products, vanities, and other types of cabinets. The U.S. Lumber Coalition and the American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance welcomed the announcement, stating that it will benefit domestic manufacturers and stimulate growth within the sector. Over the coming months, additional Section 232 investigations are expected to lead to further tariffs across multiple industries. Read the offical White House Statement: https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/10/adjusting-imports-of-medium-and-heavy-duty-vehicles-medium-and-heavy-duty-vehicle-parts-and-buses-into-the-united-states/