Trade between the US and the EU is back under pressure. Fresh tariff threats from US President Donald Trump have brought uncertainty back into focus for businesses trading across the Atlantic.
While nothing has changed yet, the risk alone is already affecting pricing, planning and decision‑making for importers and exporters. At IN Freight Solutions, we believe it’s important to understand what this means in real terms and how businesses can respond sensibly.
What’s Going On?
Last year, the US and EU agreed a deal that reduced tariffs on many goods. But delays inside EU institutions mean the agreement has still not been fully implemented.
The US has now set a 4 July deadline and warned that tariffs, including a possible 25% duty on EU automotive imports could increase if progress is not made.
Even if tariffs are never applied, the uncertainty is enough to disrupt supply chains.
How This Affects Businesses
1. Costs are harder to predict
When tariff levels are unclear, landed costs become unpredictable. Businesses risk agreeing prices today that don’t leave enough margin tomorrow.
2. Automotive and industrial sectors are most exposed
Vehicle manufacturers and their suppliers are in the spotlight, but the impact also reaches components, metals, machinery and chemicals.
3. Customs mistakes become more expensive
Changing tariffs increase the risk of errors with commodity codes, origin rules and customs values. With audits increasing, mistakes can lead to fines and back‑dated charges.
A Bigger Shift Is Happening
Alongside tariff disputes, global supply chains are being redesigned.
The US and other major economies are trying to reduce their reliance on China for critical materials. This is leading to new trade routes and partnerships, particularly across Africa and the Asia‑Pacific region.
For businesses, this means:
- New sourcing markets
- New compliance requirements
- More complex logistics decisions
What Businesses Should Be Doing Now
Instead of waiting for political certainty, smart businesses are:
- Reviewing contracts and Incoterms to understand risk
- Testing how tariff changes would affect costs
- Looking at alternative routes and markets
- Making sure customs paperwork is accurate and compliant
Freight today is not just about moving goods. It’s about protecting your business from disruption.
How IN Freight Solutions Can Help
At IN Freight Solutions, we support businesses with clear, practical advice, helping them plan ahead, reduce risk and keep control of their supply chains in uncertain times.
Uncertainty may be unavoidable. Disruption doesn’t have to be.
