US Tariffs 2025: Overview of New Rates, Legal Framework, and Official Publications

The year 2025 has introduced significant developments in United States tariff policy, particularly regarding steel,
aluminum, and a wide range of derivative products subject to national security review. These changes, implemented
under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, expand both tariff rates and product coverage. For accounting,
finance, and compliance professionals, understanding the legal framework, official sources, and business implications
is essential.

Legal Basis and Authoritative Sources

All legally binding tariff changes in the United States are published through official federal channels. These sources
provide the definitive record of tariff rates, amendments, HTSUS classifications, compliance requirements, and ongoing
regulatory developments.

Federal Register

The Federal Register is the official journal of the U.S. government and the primary source for tariff-related
rules, amendments, notices, and procedural updates.

General source: Federal Register

Key 2025 publications include:

Section 232 Inclusions Process (May 2, 2025)
Addition of 407 Derivative Product Categories (August 19, 2025)

Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), U.S. Department of Commerce

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) administers Section 232 measures and publishes official guidance, HTSUS
coverage lists, and decisions regarding product inclusions.

General source:
Bureau of Industry and Security

Key resources include:

Section 232 Steel and Aluminum Resource Page
Announcement of 407 New Tariff-Covered Categories

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provides operational guidance for importers regarding tariff application,
product classification, entry procedures, and compliance obligations.

General source:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Key resource:

Section 232 FAQs

The White House – Presidential Actions

Tariff changes under Section 232 are implemented through Presidential Proclamations. Notable 2025 documents include:

Adjustment of Steel Imports (February 2025)
Increase of Steel and Aluminum Tariffs to 50% (June 2025)

These publications collectively provide the complete authoritative framework governing U.S. tariff policy under
Section 232.

Key Tariff Developments in 2025

Increase to 50 Percent Tariffs

In June 2025, the United States increased tariffs on steel, aluminum, and many derivative goods from 25 percent to
50 percent ad valorem. This adjustment has significant cost implications for importers of raw materials and
manufactured products containing steel or aluminum.

Expansion of Tariff-Covered Products

In August 2025, BIS added 407 new HTSUS categories to the scope of tariff-covered derivative products. These include
machinery, assemblies, vehicle components, tools, structural items, and other goods containing metal content. Tariffs
on derivative products are calculated based on metal content, requiring importers to maintain detailed product
documentation.

Formalization of the Inclusions Process

A procedural rule issued in May 2025 formally establishes the process through which stakeholders may propose
additional product categories for inclusion under Section 232 measures. Approved inclusions are published in the
Federal Register before becoming binding.

Business and Accounting Implications

Higher Import Costs

A 50 percent tariff significantly increases landed costs for metal-containing goods, affecting cost of goods sold,
profitability, and inventory valuation. These effects must be incorporated into financial models and pricing
strategies.

Increased Classification and Documentation Requirements

Accurate HTSUS classification and verification of material content are essential for compliance. Importers must
maintain technical specifications, certificates of origin, and supporting documentation consistent with CBP and BIS
expectations.

Impact on Financial Planning

Companies may need to revise cost assumptions, adjust budgets, renegotiate supply agreements, and revise pricing
policies. Tariff exposure should be embedded into long-term forecasting and sensitivity analyses.

Compliance and Audit Preparedness

Enhanced internal controls are necessary to ensure accurate tariff calculations, proper documentation, and customs
compliance. Businesses should prepare for increased regulatory scrutiny.

Recommendations for Monitoring Changes

Because tariff policy continues to evolve quickly, companies should regularly monitor the following official sources:

Federal Register

Bureau of Industry and Security

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

White House Presidential Actions

Conclusion

Tariff policy in the United States has expanded significantly in 2025, with higher duty rates and broader product
coverage under Section 232. For companies engaged in international trade, and for accounting professionals
responsible for financial reporting and compliance, reliable understanding of official publications is essential.
Integrating tariff considerations into procurement strategies, cost models, and compliance frameworks is now critical
for managing financial and operational exposure.

For businesses that trade extensively with China, understanding how U.S. tariff policy affects import costs is essential. You can find more detailed guidance in our article on importing goods from China.