Chief’s Response to Tariffs
With the situation continuously evolving, our mission remains to provide you with the most current information and to proactively work with our customers and partners on how to mitigate tariff exposures. As global trade, security and supply-chain policies evolve, we are committed to keeping you informed and supported.
As of November 5, 2025, the reciprocal tariff regime under the U.S. executive orders has two important recent updates:
- Europe (EU): A 15% minimum reciprocal tariff now applies to most imports, consistent with the August 7 order. However, under the latest September 5 order, certain product categories from the EU have been designated for potential tariff reduction (even to zero) if a trade/security alignment deal is concluded.
- Thailand / ASEAN region: As previously announced, the U.S. initially set a 36% tariff (effective August 1, 2025) for Thailand, then revised downward to 19% (effective August 7). Our engagements with other ASEAN partners remain active, and the broader framework may evolve if alignment agreements are reached.
- China (including Hong Kong & Macau): Under the May 14 Executive Order and subsequent actions, the 10% reciprocal tariff continues temporarily, but combined with other tariffs (20% fentanyl-related, 25% Section 301) the total burden on Chinese-origin goods is about 55%. Additionally, the September order adds heightened risk of transshipment enforcement: goods routed through third countries to evade tariffs may now face a 40% additional duty.
We understand the impact of these changes—and potential future revisions—and we are positioned to help. With operations in the U.S., Mexico and Germany, we are well-placed to support you in exploring strategic sourcing, tariff mitigation and supply-chain resiliency. If you identify areas where we can support you in reducing tariff exposure, please let us know.
There are many scenarios and most are specific to our customers or products. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your Account Manager or Customer Service Representative with any questions or concerns, but most specifically to address your concerns individually.
We will keep you informed of any developments and share updates on Chief’s response to any additional tariffs promptly. Thank you for your understanding as we navigate these changes together.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are tariff charges calculated?
Tariffs are assessed based on U.S. Customs regulations and applied as a percentage of the product’s declared value. These percentages are determined by the country of origin and the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes assigned to each item.
Will I see tariffs on my invoice?
Yes. If applicable, tariff charges are itemized on quotes and invoices under a separate line item labeled as “Tariff” or “Tariff Surcharge” for transparency. These reflect the actual import duty incurred on your order.
Are your custom or value-added assemblies affected by tariffs?
Yes, if they include components sourced from countries subject to tariffs. We track component origins closely and will communicate any tariff impact during quoting or order confirmation.
Do you adjust tariffs retroactively if policies change?
Tariff costs are based on the import date and prevailing U.S. Customs regulations. If a tariff rate changes after a shipment clears customs, we cannot retroactively adjust charges, but we will update pricing for future orders accordingly.
What products are impacted by the new tariffs?
As part of evolving U.S. trade policy, a series of new tariffs and amendments have recently been enacted that impact imports across a broad range of goods. Below is a summary of the key updates that may affect sourcing, pricing, and availability of components distributed or manufactured by Chief Enterprises.
| Tariff Type | Applicable Countries | Rate | Effective Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Tariff | All countries (unless overridden) | 10% | April 5, 2025 | Default baseline tariff |
| EU Tariff | European Union Member States | 15% | July 27, 2025 | Standard; some critical sectors exempt (e.g., semiconductors, pharmaceuticals) |
| Thailand Tariff | Thailand | 19% | August 1, 2025 | Lowered from 36% under bilateral agreement |
| China Tariff | China (incl. Hong Kong & Macau) | 30–34%; up to 55% on select goods | Extended through November 2025 (as of August) |
Current truce holds rates at ~30–34% Strategic/sensitive goods may face up to 55% |
How does USMCA affect tariffs?
Under the USMCA, most qualifying goods traded between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada are exempt from tariffs, provided they meet the agreement’s rules of origin. This includes many automotive components and subassemblies if they meet content thresholds.
Tariff Resources
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HTS Codes
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USTR Statement on Section 301 Tariffs (2018)
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NYT: Trump Suspends Tariffs on Mexico (March 2025)
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Fact Sheet: Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China (Feb 2025)
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Executive Order: Addressing Certain Tariffs on Imported Articles (April 2025)
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Executive Order: Modifying Reciprocal Tariffs for Retaliation Alignment (April 2025)
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Executive Order: Reciprocal Tariffs to Address Trade Deficits (April 2025)
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Executive Order: Amendment on Low-Value Imports from China (April 2025)
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Executive Order: Modifying Reciprocal Tariffs After Talks with China (May 2025)
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Executive Order: Extending The Modification of The Reciprocal Tariff Rates (July 2025)
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Executive Order: Further Modifying the Reciprocal Tariff Rates (July 2025)
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Executive Order: Further Modifying the Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Reflect Ongoing Discussions with The People's Republic of China (August 2025)
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Executive Order: Modifying the Scope of Reciprocal Tariffs (September 2025)
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Executive Order: Modifying Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People's Republic of China (November 2025)
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Executive Order: Modifying Reciprocal Tariff Rates Between The United States and The People's Republic of China (November 2025)