ASA is closely monitoring several significant trade developments issued this week by the White House that could affect sportfishing businesses reliant on imported goods. These changes include modified tariff rates under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), new restrictions on de minimis shipments, and ongoing legal challenges that could determine the fate of these policies.

President Trump signed an Executive Order on July 31 modifying the existing 10% IEEPA tariff rate to new country-specific reciprocal tariffs, set to take effect seven days from the order's signing. Countries listed in Annex I of the order will face a range of tariff rates, while all others will continue under the 10% baseline.

Notable Details:

• Mexico: While not listed in Annex I, a temporary agreement with Mexico maintains existing tariff levels for at least 90 days. However, it is unclear if Mexico will face the new 10% tariff on top of existing rates.
• Transshipment Penalty: Goods deemed by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to be transshipped will face an additional 40% tariff, though transshipment remains undefined.
• In-Transit Exemption: Goods already en route before the effective date are exempt until October 5, 2025.

In a separate action intended to curb fentanyl trafficking, the White House announced a new 35% IEEPA tariff rate on Canadian goods. This change is effective August 1 and applies only to non-USMCA-qualifying products. Transshipped goods (term undefined) will be assessed at 40%.

On the same day the new tariffs were announced, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit heard oral arguments in a key legal case challenging the Presidents authority to impose tariffs under IEEPA. The outcome could determine the long-term viability of these actions. A decision is pending, and further appeals to the Supreme Court are expected.

An Executive Order signed on July 30 eliminates de minimis treatment for imports valued at or under $800 from all countries. De minimis was eliminated for Chinese imports only earlier this year. This change becomes effective August 29, 2025.

Notable Details:

• Goods not sent through the international postal system will now be subject to all applicable duties, including new IEEPA tariffs.
• Postal shipments will face either:
  • An ad valorem duty (based on the IEEPA rate), or
  • A specific duty ($80$200 per item), available for a six-month transition period.
  • Exemptions for personal travelers ($200) and gifts ($100) remain unchanged.

While implementation guidance from CBP is still pending, these changes could have direct cost implications for companies importing fishing tackle, gear components, apparel, and other related products.

ASA is tracking these developments closely and will share more detailed guidance as it becomes available. If you have questions about how these changes could affect your business, please contact ASAs Government Affairs team.


Mike Leonard
Vice President, Government Affairs
American Sportfishing Association