Over 45 Imported Products Granted Zero Tariffs in the US: New Opportunities for Cross-Border Sellers

1. Policy Update: Zero Tariff List Announced

On September 5, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order granting zero tariffs on more than 45 categories of imported products from allied partners that have signed framework agreements with the U.S., including the EU, Japan, and South Korea.

Effective from September 8, 12:01 AM EST, the zero-tariff list covers:

Key raw materials: graphite, neodymium magnets, LEDs

New energy inputs: nickel (used in stainless steel and EV batteries)

Precious metals: all gold products, from gold dust and foil to gold bars

Selected agricultural goods, aircraft & aircraft parts, and non-patented pharmaceutical materials

Note: Certain industrial materials, such as silicon, resins, and aluminum hydroxide, remain excluded from the tariff exemption.

2. Data Insights: Trade Policy & Market Impact

45+ product categories now enjoy tariff exemptions, reducing costs in sectors such as electronics, EV batteries, pharmaceuticals, and gold.

In contrast, the U.S. government previously imposed tariffs of up to 50% on 407 categories of steel and aluminum products, with some imports facing up to 200% duties if origin could not be verified.

Compliance remains a heavy burden: filing import declarations for each product can take 1–3 hours, while complex cargo, such as EV parts, may require 10+ hours of documentation work.

This new exemption is expected to ease financial pressure and regulatory costs for importers.

3. Implications for Cross-Border Sellers

Cost Relief

Significant reductions for businesses dealing in gold, nickel, magnets, and other listed goods.

Lower customs burden, especially for SMEs.

Market Opportunities

EV, electronics, and pharmaceuticals sectors may benefit from reduced supply chain costs.

Demand for duty-free gold imports is likely to see a short-term boost.

Remaining Risks

Products not covered (e.g., silicon, resins) remain exposed to high tariffs.

Strict origin-tracing requirements continue—failure to provide documentation may result in default classification under “high-tariff countries.”

4. Recommended Actions for Sellers

Check the exemption list: Verify if your products qualify for zero tariffs and adjust sourcing and pricing strategies accordingly.

Optimize logistics planning: Secure shipping space early to take advantage of cost savings.

Strengthen compliance management: Ensure accurate certificates of origin and material traceability.

Adopt split-shipment strategies: Reduce exposure to tariff or policy risks on single large consignments.

5. Conclusion

The U.S. tariff exemption policy brings fresh opportunities to cross-border sellers, especially in new energy, gold, and pharmaceuticals. However, regulatory compliance and customs documentation remain critical.

Passionship International Logistics provides end-to-end cross-border shipping solutions, including:

Real-time tariff and policy updates

Professional customs clearance support

Flexible shipping options (sea, air, expedited)

Partner with us to leverage policy benefits and secure your competitive edge in global trade.