USMCA Tariff Exemption Executive Orders Published

Mar. 6, 2025
By: Chaney A. Finn

After a day of unofficial reports, the White House has published an Executive Order pertaining to the tariff exemptions previously reported for USMCA-qualifying imports from Canada, as well as a Fact Sheet covering USMCA-qualifying imports from Mexico into the U.S. The Mexico EO is expected to be published very soon (but not as of 4:37 p.m. Central).

Effective March 7^th, imports into the U.S. “that are entered free of duty as a good of Canada, or Mexico, under the terms of general note 11” of the tariff schedule, are exempt from 10% and 25% tariffs “including any treatment set forth in subchapter XXIII of chapter 98 and subchapter XXII of chapter 99.” Potash imports from both countries, which do not qualify for USMCA preferential treatment, are to be assessed 10% duties instead of 25% duties.

The previous reports indicated the exemptions will expire April 2, however, the executive orders mention no expiration date.

This continues to be an evolving situation and there have been public discussions about other possible suspensions as well. Should you have any questions regarding tariffs or any other trade-related question, please contact any attorney at Barnes Richardson and Colburn.