US Small Businesses Face Bankruptcy Amid Rising Tariffs

US Small Businesses Face Bankruptcy Amid Rising Tariffs

US small and medium-sized enterprise importers are facing a survival crisis due to tariffs. Surveys show that high tariffs severely impact corporate profitability, even leading to bankruptcy. While companies attempt to shift sourcing locations, the effect is limited, and policy uncertainty further exacerbates the situation. There are no winners in a tariff war; open cooperation is the path to mutual benefit and win-win outcomes. The impact is particularly pronounced on smaller businesses lacking the resources to absorb the increased costs or navigate complex supply chain adjustments.

11/03/2025 Logistics Industry Insights
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Threestep Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification

Threestep Guide to Accurate HS Code Classification

This article addresses the challenges of HS code classification. It summarizes the experience of seasoned classification specialists and proposes a three-step method: preliminary screening via keyword search, precise matching by consulting the tariff, and final confirmation by clarifying details. Through detailed examples, it helps businesses quickly and accurately identify commodity tariff numbers, avoiding customs clearance risks. This method aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance, ultimately benefiting businesses engaged in international trade.

09/26/2025 HS Code Query
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Tajikistan Adopts Harmonized System Codes to Boost Trade

Tajikistan Adopts Harmonized System Codes to Boost Trade

Tajikistan hosted its first national workshop on the WCO Harmonized System (HS) to enhance customs commodity classification capabilities and align with international standards. The workshop covered the HS Convention, best practices in tariff classification, and the use of WCO tools. The IFC expressed appreciation for the cooperation between the WCO and Tajik Customs. This workshop marks a significant step for Tajikistan in the field of tariff classification, creating a fairer trading environment for businesses.

01/05/2026 Customs Knowledge
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Tonga Customs Workshop Boosts Trade Efficiency

Tonga Customs Workshop Boosts Trade Efficiency

In January 2025, the WCO and Tonga Customs jointly held a workshop on tariff rulings in Nuku'alofa, aiming to enhance Tonga Customs' tariff classification capabilities and promote trade facilitation. Sponsored by the Japan Customs Cooperation Fund, the workshop covered WCO guidelines, Tonga Customs practices, action plan development, and expert experience sharing. Through capacity building, institutional improvement, technical support, and international cooperation, Tonga Customs will be better positioned to serve national economic development.

01/23/2025 Customs Knowledge
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US Industries Warn Tariffs Threaten Trucking Retail and Ports

US Industries Warn Tariffs Threaten Trucking Retail and Ports

Leaders in the US trucking, retail, and port industries are warning that current tariff policies could negatively impact the US economy, import volumes, and supply chain operations. This could lead to slower economic growth, decreased import trade, and increased risks of supply chain disruptions. Businesses need to proactively respond, and the government should carefully assess the impact of tariff policies to mitigate potential damage. Prudent evaluation and strategic adaptation are crucial in navigating these challenges.

01/07/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile Advances Trade with Customs System Workshop

Chile successfully hosted a national seminar in Valparaiso on the Harmonized System and Customs Tariff Management. The seminar aimed to enhance the professional skills of customs officials in commodity classification and tariff management, ensuring consistent application of the HS 2017 version and improving current working methods. With the assistance of the WCO, Chile Customs will continue to improve its capabilities, making greater contributions to promoting Chile's economic development and facilitating international trade.

01/07/2026 Customs Knowledge
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US Steel Tariffs Rise As Yearend Logistics Strain Trade

US Steel Tariffs Rise As Yearend Logistics Strain Trade

The combination of adjusted tariff policies in the North American market and year-end logistics bottlenecks presents challenges for businesses. This report analyzes the impact of rising US shipping rates, stricter customs inspections, and new tariff policies in Canada and Mexico. Addressing year-end logistics characteristics, it offers recommendations including shipping strategies, compliant declarations, cost assessment, and advance planning. These suggestions aim to help businesses navigate the complexities and mitigate potential disruptions during this period.

01/15/2026 Logistics
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US FTZ Warehouses Ease Trade Turbulence for Businesses

US FTZ Warehouses Ease Trade Turbulence for Businesses

Amidst increasing global trade uncertainties, US FTZ (Free Trade Zone) warehouses offer companies advantages like tariff deferral, duty-free exports, indefinite storage, and tariff rate selection. Especially with heightened US-China trade tensions, FTZ warehouses provide greater operational flexibility and strategies to mitigate trade risks and enhance supply chain resilience. They serve as a critical Plan B for businesses navigating these challenges, offering a 'domestic area outside customs' environment to optimize operations and minimize the impact of trade disputes.

01/04/2026 Warehousing
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Global Air Freight Rates Drop Amid Trade Volatility

Global Air Freight Rates Drop Amid Trade Volatility

The global air freight market is facing downward pressure, primarily due to trade policy uncertainties, tariff adjustments, and fluctuating market sentiment. While there have been tariff postponements and regional price increases, the overall downward trend is unlikely to change. Businesses need to closely monitor market dynamics and flexibly adjust their supply chain strategies to meet these challenges. These adjustments are crucial for navigating the current volatile environment and mitigating potential risks associated with the evolving global trade landscape.

01/06/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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