Navigating the new U.S. tariffs: What they mean for global supply chains

On April 2, 2025, the U.S. government introduced sweeping new tariffs aimed at protecting domestic industries and addressing long-standing trade imbalances.

Key highlights include:

• 10% baseline tariff on all imports into the U.S.
• China: 54% tariff on Chinese exports
• European Union: 20% tariff
• United Kingdom: 10% tariff on all goods and a 25% tariff on car imports
• Canada & Mexico: 25% tariff, overriding prior trade agreements

These new trade measures mark a significant shift in global trade dynamics and are already prompting reassessments of sourcing strategies, manufacturing locations, and logistics networks across multiple regions. WSJ, Reuters & The Scottish Sun

Global impact: Regional breakdown

GB United Kingdom

Tariffs imposed:

10% on all UK exports to the U.S.

25% on UK-manufactured cars

Impact summary: The UK automotive sector—an essential pillar of the national economy—is especially at risk. The 25% duty on vehicles could reduce demand in the U.S., impacting production volumes and threatening jobs across the UK. Other sectors reliant on U.S. exports may also feel the strain. In response, the UK government is pursuing diplomatic channels to ease tensions and safeguard trade continuity. The Scottish Sun+1Time+1

Asia-Pacific

Tariffs imposed:

54% on Chinese exports

10–49% on goods from countries like Vietnam and Thailand

Impact summary: China faces the steepest penalty, likely reducing its export competitiveness and forcing companies to seek alternate markets or accelerate supply chain shifts. Southeast Asian economies, highly dependent on exports, may suffer knock-on effects such as slower growth and increased pressure to negotiate preferential terms with the U.S. ​Reuters

European Union

Tariffs imposed:

20% on all EU exports to the U.S.

Impact summary: Industries such as automotive, aerospace, and pharmaceuticals are directly in the firing line. EU companies may face a sharp decline in export volume and margins. The European Commission has already signalled potential countermeasures, raising the stakes of a full-scale transatlantic trade conflict.

Americas (excluding U.S.)

Tariffs imposed:

25% on imports from Canada and Mexico

Impact summary: Despite existing trade agreements, U.S. neighbours are not exempt. The 25% tariff could severely disrupt regional supply chains—particularly in the automotive and consumer goods sectors—raising production costs and sparking trade tensions that ripple across the hemisphere.

Retaliation risks and global trade volatility

History tells us that tariffs rarely go unanswered—and this time is no different.

China has already denounced the U.S. move, warning it will take “all necessary measures” to defend its economic interests. Possible countermeasures could include:

• New tariffs on U.S. exports
• Regulatory barriers for American companies operating in China
• Export restrictions on key raw materials (e.g., gallium, germanium)

Other countries may follow suit, and the ripple effect could hit businesses around the world—even those with minimal direct U.S. trade exposure. For example:

• Electronics manufacturers in Vietnam could lose access to key components redirected by Chinese suppliers
• Healthcare providers in the UK may face rising costs for medical equipment due to global price volatility
• Semiconductor makers might experience shortages if export restrictions on rare minerals tighten further

The takeaway: it’s not just about current tariffs, but the uncertainty of what’s next. Planning becomes significantly more complex when retaliation and new trade barriers are a constant risk.

How Ligentia Is helping customers thrive amid disruption

At Ligentia, we see this moment not just as a challenge—but as an opportunity to transform. Our mission is to help customers build supply chains that aren’t just reactive, but resilient, responsive, and ready for the future.

Here’s how we’re doing it:

1. Proactive supply chain optimisation

We help customers identify alternative suppliers, diversify sourcing strategies, and reconfigure logistics flows to mitigate tariff exposure and increase agility.

2. Efficiency gains & waste reduction

By streamlining freight consolidation, inventory planning, and supplier management, we help customers reduce unnecessary costs and carbon emissions.

3. Automation & real-time visibility

Through our Ligentix platform, we enable real-time shipment tracking, milestone updates, and exception management to improve speed and accuracy.

4. Inventory & cash flow optimisation (Powered by AI)

AI-driven insights help customers strike the right inventory balance—avoiding both costly overstocking and damaging stockouts—while preserving working capital.

5. Rapid project execution

From urgent warehouse setups to fast-track tech rollouts, our team can mobilise quickly to implement solutions that keep your operations moving.

6. Customs health check & tariff code validation

Through our expert Ligentia Customs Bureau, we offer a comprehensive customs health check for our customers. This includes:

• Reviewing and validating current tariff codes (HS codes) to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date
• Identifying potential duty reclassification opportunities to reduce cost exposure
• Providing guidance on compliance with new trade regulations, especially in light of evolving U.S. and global tariff regimes

This health check not only ensures customers are not overpaying duties, but also helps avoid potential delays or penalties due to misclassification. It’s a powerful lever to improve compliance, reduce landed costs, and proactively manage risk in cross-border trade.

The road ahead: Partnering for what comes next

The recent U.S. tariffs are a stark reminder that global trade can shift at any moment. Businesses are asking themselves: How do we prepare for the unpredictable?

The answer lies in:

• Building flexible, tech-enabled supply chains
• Partnering with providers who understand complexity
• Turning uncertainty into strategic advantage

Ligentia isn’t just a supply chain management partner—we’re your guide through volatility. With our deep expertise, cutting-edge technology, and relentless focus on customer success, we help you not only navigate disruption, but come out stronger on the other side.

Ready to transform your supply chain?

Let’s start a conversation about how we can help you optimise, automate, and future-proof your operations—no matter what comes next. Connect with us today.