USA - a turbulent Monday for logistics

Dear partners, allow us to inform you about the latest developments in the USA.

The Supreme Court overturns Trump's tariffs and rejects the president's key economic policy. Trump reacts sharply.

On Friday, the US Supreme Court invalidated a significant part of President Donald Trump's extensive tariff program.

In a 6-3 vote, the majority ruled that the law on which the import tariffs were based "does not authorize the president to impose tariffs."

The decision does not mention whether tariffs already paid at higher rates will have to be refunded.

President Trump said on Friday that the tariffs overturned by the court would be replaced by a 10% tariff on all goods entering the US. The 10% tariffs were due to take effect on Tuesday, February 24.

Subsequently, on Saturday, President Trump intensified his criticism of the Supreme Court and stated that he would impose global tariffs of 15%.

Currently, most goods originating in the European Union are subject to a flat tariff rate of 15%. It would seem, therefore, that nothing has changed for European exporters so far. However, there are still special tariffs, for example, for goods made of aluminum and aluminum derivatives, where there is an additional duty of 50% of the value of the aluminum parts.

As these are flat tariffs with exceptions (energy, medicines), customs declarants in the US are likely to be overwhelmed. An extension of the customs clearance period for exemptions for individual items can be expected.

Some US customers may also refuse to accept shipments until the situation with refunds for previous (now canceled) duties is clarified. 

As always, however, it is necessary to wait for the decisions issued by the White House administration and published in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States.

We are closely monitoring this further significant change in conditions for exporters to the US and will keep you informed of any further news and updates.

SNOWSTORM ON THE EAST COAST

Snowstorm warning for the US East Coast

Snow and rain swept across part of the East Coast on Sunday. Blizzard warnings were issued from Maryland to Massachusetts as conditions rapidly deteriorated.

Meteorologists say that many areas could see 30 to 60 cm of snow, accompanied by strong winds and, in some places, the risk of coastal flooding.

Blizzard warnings are also in effect for New York City, Long Island, Boston, and communities in New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts. Officials in New York and New Jersey have declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm and have begun mobilizing emergency response teams.

The storm may disrupt supply chains, particularly in the Northeast, as adverse weather conditions affect air, ground, and port operations. Heavy snowfall, strong winds, and limited visibility may lead to flight disruptions, highway closures, reduced freight capacity, and temporary terminal slowdowns.