Due to conflicting information circulating in the market, we would like to clarify the official rules for calculating customs duties on shipments from the European Union to the United States. Below, we present a clear comparison of how the system worked previously and what applies today.

How it worked before

Under the previous trade framework, a minimum duty level of 15% applied to most products originating from the EU. The mechanism operated as follows:

If the base customs duty rate under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) was lower than 15%, the 15% rate was applied.
If the base HTS rate was higher than 15%, that higher rate applied.

In practice, this meant that a 15% threshold functioned as a minimum duty floor for the majority of goods.

How it works now

The 15% minimum threshold mechanism is no longer in force.

Currently, the applicable duty is based on the standard base rate resulting directly from the HTS classification of the product.

In addition to that base rate, an extra 10% ad valorem duty is applied as a temporary import surcharge.

As a result, the total customs burden now depends strictly on the specific tariff code assigned to the product and the current regulations applicable to that classification.

Key facts to remember

The additional duty currently in force is 10%.

The 15% ad valorem rate was publicly announced by President Trump, but it was not formally implemented.

Each customs calculation now requires precise reference to the correct HS/HTS code and the currently applicable rules.

For exporters and importers, this change highlights the importance of accurate product classification and up-to-date duty verification. If you have questions regarding specific products or HS codes, we encourage individual verification to ensure proper cost planning and compliance at the time of customs clearance.

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