Chief’s Response to Tariffs
With the situation constantly changing, our mission is to provide you with up-to-date details and to proactively work with our customers and partners on how to mitigate the tariffs as they may pertain to you. As global trade policies continue to change, we are committed to keeping you informed and supported.
As of August 22, 2025, broad tariffs are no longer set at a flat 10% for most imports. Instead:
- Europe (EU): A 15% reciprocal tariff now applies to most imports, though important categories such as semiconductor equipment, aerospace components, and select chemicals are exempt.
- Thailand: The U.S. initially announced a 36% reciprocal tariff, effective August 1, 2025. Following negotiations, this has been revised downward to 19% effective August 7, 2025, bringing Thailand into closer alignment with other ASEAN trading partners.
- China (including Hong Kong and Macau): Pursuant to the Presidential Executive Order of May 14th, the 10% reciprocal tariff continues to temporarily replace the prior 125% tariff under a 90-day suspension. Taken together with the 20% fentanyl-related tariff and the 25% Section 301 tariffs, the total current tariff burden on Chinese-origin products remains about 55%.
We understand the impact these changes may have, and we’re here to help. With a strong presence in the U.S., Mexico, and Germany, we are well positioned to work with you to find strategic solutions. 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)