Expanded global trade and tariff update as of May 23rd, 2025, covering major trade agreements, tariff changes, economic impacts, and global responses.

United States: Tariff Adjustments & Trade Negotiations

U.S.-China Tariff Truce

The U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day tariff reduction starting May 14, 2025, temporarily lowering duties on key imports.
China adjusted tariffs on low-value postal shipments from the U.S. as part of the agreement.
The de minimis exemption for Chinese goods remains eliminated, meaning all shipments are now subject to tariffs.
Apple’s iPhone shipments to the U.S. from China have dropped to their lowest levels since 2011, reflecting the impact of tariffs.

Trump Administration’s Reciprocal Tariff Policy

The April 9, 2025 pause on reciprocal tariffs continues, affecting 57 non-retaliating countries.
The IEEPA universal tariff of 10% remains in place for most imports.
Section 232 tariffs on auto parts (25%) officially took effect on May 3, 2025.

U.S.-UK Trade Agreement

On May 8, 2025, the U.S. lowered tariffs on British steel, aluminum, and automobiles, marking a significant shift in trade relations.
The agreement is expected to save the UK economy £6.5 billion in harm from Trump’s tariffs.

European Union: Trade Deals & Tariff Adjustments

EU’s Trade Proposal to the U.S.

The EU offered a fresh trade deal to the U.S., including tariff reductions on lobster and other key goods.
The proposal is part of ongoing negotiations to prevent further tariff escalations.
The EU is preparing $108 billion in retaliatory tariffs if talks fail.

EU’s Response to U.S. Tariffs

The EU is considering retaliatory tariffs against U.S. trade policies, particularly in response to Trump’s auto tariffs.
European automakers have expressed concerns over higher costs and supply chain disruptions.

Asia-Pacific: Japan & China’s Trade Stance

Japan’s Firm Stance on U.S. Tariffs

Japan’s top trade negotiator, Ryosei Akazawa, reaffirmed that Tokyo will not accept U.S. tariffs and is demanding their elimination.
Japan has warned against a rushed trade deal, emphasizing the need for fair negotiations.

China’s Trade Strategy

China has introduced legal action against organizations assisting the U.S. in discouraging the use of Chinese chips.
Apple’s iPhone shipments to the U.S. from China have dropped to their lowest levels since 2011, reflecting the impact of tariffs.

Canada & Mexico: Trade Adjustments

Canada’s Countermeasure Tariffs

Canada has introduced a 25% surtax on certain U.S. imports, including processed foods and catalogs, in response to U.S. trade policies.
Canada’s temporary relief measures allow automakers producing vehicles in Canada to import a limited number of U.S.-assembled, CUSMA-compliant vehicles tariff-free.

Mexico’s Trade Response

Mexico is preparing countermeasures against U.S. tariffs, which could further escalate trade tensions.

Africa: AGOA & Trade Concerns

Kenya’s AGOA Trade Agreement

Kenya’s duty-free trade agreement with the U.S. under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) is set to expire in September, potentially exposing Kenyan exports to Trump’s tariffs.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has urged the U.S. to extend AGOA, citing its importance for African economies.

Economic Outlook & Future Predictions

Inflation & Consumer Spending

The U.S. Federal Reserve is monitoring the economic impact of tariffs, with concerns about inflation and consumer spending.
Economists predict these tariffs will increase prices and dampen economic growth in the short term.

Trade Negotiations & Possible Reductions

Diplomatic efforts may ease tariffs as global trade negotiations progress.
Automotive lobbying groups are pressuring policymakers for alternative trade solutions.

Supply Chain Restructuring

Expect shifts toward domestic production across the automotive, tech, and electronics sectors.
Some foreign automakers may establish U.S. plants to avoid tariffs.

Conclusion

The May 2025 trade landscape has been shaped by U.S.-China negotiations, EU trade proposals, Japan’s firm stance, Canada’s countermeasures, and Africa’s AGOA concerns. As global trade tensions continue, businesses and policymakers must navigate shifting tariffs and trade agreements.

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