--- title: "Trump Tariffs and the Supply Chain: What Brands Need to Know" description: "The tariff tide is turning. With the return of Trump-era trade measures, global supply chains are entering a new wave of volatility. While the full impact is still unfolding, one thing is clear: brands that can adapt quickly will gain a competitive edge." image: https://blog.charmingtrim.com/hubfs/pexels-mart-production-7767663.jpg --- # CHARMING INSIGHTS ##### A blog from Charming dedicated to consumer preferences, retail, and technology ### SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER [Back To blog](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/) ###### 3 min read # [Trump Tariffs and the Supply Chain: What Brands Need to Know](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know) Apr 24, 2025 10:13:15 AM [** share ](http://www.facebook.com/share.php?u=https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook) [** share ](http://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin) [** Tweet ](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?original_referer=https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&url=https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&source=tweetbutton&text=) The tariff tide is turning. With the return of Trump-era trade measures, global supply chains are entering a new wave of volatility. While the full impact is still unfolding, one thing is clear: brands that can adapt quickly will gain a competitive edge. At Charming Trim, we’re monitoring these developments closely to help our partners stay ahead. So, what’s at risk? ## The current tariff landscape Although Trump’s rhetoric on tariffs has been aggressive, the actual rollout has been more measured. The U.S. is currently in a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs for most countries, with a temporary 10% rate in effect. China is excluded from this pause and is facing significantly steeper tariff hikes. Some goods from China may qualify for a reduced 10% duty under an “on the water” clause provided they were loaded on their final mode of transit between April 5 and April 9, 2025, and are cleared for U.S. consumption before May 27. Shipments that fall outside of this window will be subject to the full Trump-era tariff rates. It’s worth noting that these tariffs may be more tactical than permanent. Many appear aimed at pressuring countries with large trade surpluses into negotiating with the U.S., meaning tariffs could be revised or rolled back as deals are struck. ## Strategic sourcing As tariff policy evolves, where you produce matters more than ever. Here’s how some of Charming’s key sourcing regions are currently positioned: ### Bangladesh & Vietnam Once dependable, both countries have been targets of Trump’s reciprocal tariff plan. With levied tariffs of [46% on Vietnam](https://www.financialexpress.com/policy/economy/vietnam-bangladesh-others-look-to-strike-trade-deals-with-us/3802347/#:~:text=While%20the%20US%20has%20imposed,40%25%20and%20Thailand%2036%25.) and [37% on Bangladesh](https://www.financialexpress.com/policy/economy/vietnam-bangladesh-others-look-to-strike-trade-deals-with-us/3802347/#:~:text=While%20the%20US%20has%20imposed,40%25%20and%20Thailand%2036%25.), these sourcing hubs are no longer the safe bets they once were. ### Mexico Mexico stands out as a strong option. Goods that comply with the USMCA continue to enjoy [0% tariffs](https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/04/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-declares-national-emergency-to-increase-our-competitive-edge-protect-our-sovereignty-and-strengthen-our-national-and-economic-security/). While that may not last forever, Trump has signaled that USMCA-compliant goods would likely receive preferential treatment under any new tariff structure. The USMCA also includes a *de minimis* provision, allowing a small percentage of non-originating materials (i.e., from outside the U.S., Mexico, or Canada) to be used in a product without losing tariff-free status. Most Charming products meet this threshold thanks to their low per-unit value. That’s why Charming maintains a global sourcing network designed for agility and flexibility. We can quickly pivot production as policies shift, helping our partners navigate uncertainty, maintain compliance, and capitalize on policy advantages when they arise. ## Your digital edge In a volatile trade environment, every tool counts. Boosting efficiency has a direct impact on your bottom line. Digital label technology enhances supply chain visibility, helps you stay ahead of regulatory changes, and strengthens your connection with consumers.  ### Digital product passports (DPPs) [DPPs](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/the-why-and-how-of-data-collection-for-dpp), like [Charming.DIGI](https://www.charmingtrim.com/digi), offer a future-ready solution by embedding traceability and compliance data directly into your products. With DPPs, your team can verify product origin, materials, and manufacturing conditions. Whether policies change next month or next year, DPPs ensure you have the infrastructure in place to stay compliant and responsive. But DPPs aren’t just about mitigating uncertainty — they’re a strategic asset in today’s market. The resale market is booming. With economic uncertainty reshaping spending habits, many shoppers are turning to secondhand goods and innovative brands are meeting them there. Secondhand products are also exempt from the same import duties as new goods. Products with [DPPs are resale-ready](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/the-reselling-market-potential-with-charming-digi-dpp), making them easier to authenticate, track, and market. DPPs also enable companies to communicate directly with consumers, curating a consistent brand experience across the product’s entire lifecycle and even across multiple generations of owners. ### Radio frequency identification (RFID) While DPPs store and communicate product data, RFID is the key to gathering that data. When paired with RFID management software like [Truecount](https://www.charmingtrim.com/truecount), RFID enables real-time tracking across every stage of the supply chain. This data gives your team the insights to assess what’s truly at risk from tariffs or geopolitical changes. Real-time tracking also supports tariff-related compliance, helping you verify qualifications for requirements like the “on the water” clause or USMCA de minimis thresholds. Beyond navigating today’s disruptions, RFID equips your company with the data needed to continuously optimize your supply chain and boost profit margins. ## Moving forward Trade turbulence is back, but it’s not unmanageable.  Charming is here to help. From our agile global sourcing network to our compliance-ready digital tools, we’re equipped to support your business through whatever policy changes come next. Get started on future proofing your supply chain and [schedule a consultation with us today!](https://www.charmingtrim.com/contact-us) ###### Topics: [Tariffs](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/topic/tariffs) ![CHARMING STAFF](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/507386/CLEAN-images/lazy-imgs/lazy-img-200x200.png) #### Written by [CHARMING STAFF](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/author/charming-staff) ###### [** Previous Post](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/smart-sustainable-packaging-options-for-your-brand) [![](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/507386/CLEAN-images/gfx/feat-img-temp.jpg)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/smart-sustainable-packaging-options-for-your-brand) ###### [Smart Sustainable Packaging Options for Your Brand](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/smart-sustainable-packaging-options-for-your-brand) ###### [Next Post **](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/managing-inventory-and-keeping-up-with-shoppers-demands-using-rfid) [![](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/507386/CLEAN-images/gfx/feat-img-temp.jpg)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/managing-inventory-and-keeping-up-with-shoppers-demands-using-rfid) ###### [Managing Inventory and Keeping Up With Shoppers’ Demands Using RFID](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/managing-inventory-and-keeping-up-with-shoppers-demands-using-rfid) ### Featured ### Posts by Tag - [sustainability (24)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/sustainability) - [DPP (20)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/dpp) - [RFID (14)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/rfid) - [digital product passport (DPP) (13)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/digital-product-passport-dpp) - [Charming.Digi (12)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/charming-digi) - [supply chain (7)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/supply-chain) - [Events (6)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/events) - [Labels (6)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/labels) - [Laws (6)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/laws) - [consumer insights (5)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/consumer-insights) - [circularity (4)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/circularity) - [Apparel (3)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/apparel) - [Certification (3)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/certification) - [PFAS (2)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/pfas) - [Tariffs (2)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/tariffs) - [brand (2)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/brand) - [digital labeling (2)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/digital-labeling) - [nfc (2)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/nfc) - [Cost Cutting (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/cost-cutting) - [Global Sourcing (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/global-sourcing) - [In Plant Printing (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/in-plant-printing) - [Nearshoring (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/nearshoring) - [QR (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/qr) - [Regulations (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/regulations) - [Smart Packaging (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/smart-packaging) - [Traceability (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/traceability) - [heat transfers (1)](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/tag/heat-transfers) [See all](https://blog.charmingtrim.com/trump-tariffs-and-the-supply-chain-what-brands-need-to-know#) ### Sign up for updates       [![](https://phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.licdn.com%2Fdms%2Fimage%2FC560BAQEd_tlSQ08hRw%2Fcompany-logo_400_400%2F0%2F1630582539667%2Flowatag_logo%3Fe%3D1718236800%26v%3Dbeta%26t%3DZeKKPX2ZDL-3Ux9DxbsvPBBBtRRimqt-_glUlzjiTHY) ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/charmingtrims/) [/CHARMING ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/charmingtrims/) 5 days ago Big news alert! CIRPASS - Digital Product Passport has just announced this week that the implementation of the DPP for apparel and retail is officially set for 2027. 👇Take a look at the roadmap document below, feel free to download and share it with your connections in the apparel and retail industry. There's important work ahead of us! [#dpp](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/dpp/) [#traceability](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/traceability/) [#circularity](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/circularity/) ‍‍‍‍ Read more ![Big news alert! CIRPASS - Digital Product Passport has just announced this week that the implemen...](https://phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.licdn.com%2Fdms%2Fimage%2FD4E1FAQFPMsqPHqqdPQ%2Ffeedshare-document-cover-images_1920%2F0%2F1709886179396%3Fe%3D1710928800%26v%3Dbeta%26t%3DVjwku_vfYE4RNUJqUQ8KQviVxt-lJjcv-Cb8yqIIVNI)   [  17 ](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/charmingtrims_roadmap-dpp-activity-7171784411384922113-GXK1?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop)   Share [![](https://phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.licdn.com%2Fdms%2Fimage%2FC4D0BAQHdBeqQFyaSAA%2Fcompany-logo_400_400%2F0%2F1668530079764%2Fcirpass_dpp_logo%3Fe%3D1718236800%26v%3Dbeta%26t%3DttDuHIpXb7ixWDtZkArJ3QTZBxu4hG6I822Qv-GT8Is) ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cirpass-dpp/) [CIRPASS - Digital Product Passport ](https://www.linkedin.com/company/cirpass-dpp/) March 1 The CIRPASS - Digital Product Passport final event is just around the corner! Have you registered already? No? 😱 Make sure to save your spot now > [https://lnkd.in/dVwEe2EZ](https://lnkd.in/dVwEe2EZ) 🗓The event will start at 9h30 CET - (5 March 2024) Consult the full event agenda > [https://lnkd.in/d-U3Zqra](https://lnkd.in/d-U3Zqra)  🔗 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲: On the day of the event, you will be able to connect on this link > [https://lnkd.in/gEZs3XiX](https://lnkd.in/gEZs3XiX) ❓❓𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗤&𝗔 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗼 During the event, we will be conducting the Q&A sessions exclusively through Slido. Ask your questions to the experts on this link > [https://lnkd.in/gtgJ5bek](https://lnkd.in/gtgJ5bek) ------- Battery Pass Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique et aux Energies Alternatives, CEA-List, SLR Consulting, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy, Chalmers Industriteknik, VDE, DKE, +ImpaKT Luxembourg S.à.r.l, F6S Innovation, GS1 in Europe, Politecnico di Milano, circular.fashion, DIGITALEUROPE, EIT InnoEnergy, Delft University of Technology, TalTech – Tallinn University of Technology, Veltha, Energy Web, Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung , SyncForce, Innovalia Association, Textile Exchange , Responsible Business Alliance, Worldline, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden, iPoint Systems, Global Electronics Council, Avery Dennison, Global Battery Alliance, Global Textile Scheme GmbH Read more ![The CIRPASS - Digital Product Passport final event is just around the corner!Have you registered ...](https://phosphor.utils.elfsightcdn.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fmedia.licdn.com%2Fdms%2Fimage%2FD5622AQEV3zB6tmtO2w%2Ffeedshare-shrink_2048_1536%2F0%2F1709204357535%3Fe%3D1713398400%26v%3Dbeta%26t%3DhN0m0YNqMucwkHl8h5b911OBhB2H3ywNZaNCcIaNoV0)   [  11 ](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/charmingtrims_the-cirpass-digital-product-passport-final-activity-7170689287410171904-qGbS?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop)   Share