PeopleForBikes' Tariff Resource Hub

Escalating trade pressures are disrupting every link in the bicycle supply chain, driving up costs, complicating sourcing, squeezing margins, and shaking consumer confidence. Our new resource hub breaks down what’s happening, why it matters, and how PeopleForBikes is leading the charge to protect the bike industry and your business.

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November 3 Update

Administration Releases Fact Sheet Outlining Terms of a Trade and Economic Agreement With China

On Saturday, November 1, the administration released a fact sheet outlining the terms of a trade and economic deal with China. While the fact sheet refers to the results of discussions as an “agreement,” a number of details still remain to be defined. The key features of the potential agreement with respect to the bicycle industry include:

Section 301 Exclusions: The U.S. agreed to extend all current Section 301 tariff exclusions due to expire on November 29 for an additional year. The extended exclusions include bicycle trailers and certain bicycle helmets.

IEEPA Fentanyl and Reciprocal Tariffs: The U.S. will lower IEEPA fentanyl tariffs on Chinese imports from 20% to 10%, effective November 10, 2025. The 10% reciprocal tariffs will remain at that level until November 10, 2026. This will lower the total tariff on most bicycles from 66% to 56%, and lower tariffs on electric bicycles from 55% to 45%.

Port Fees: Both countries agreed to remove additional port fees and other actions that were recently imposed as the trade war expanded.

PeopleForBikes views these negotiations and outcomes as generally favorable for the U.S. bicycle industry. Although relatively high additional tariffs on Chinese-origin bicycle and e-bike imports remain in place, it appears they will remain fairly constant for the next year, barring any breakdown in relations and resumption of trade hostilities.

Other Trade Developments: The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments on November 5 in litigation over the validity of the administration’s use of the IEEPA to impose reciprocal and other tariffs. A decision by the Court is anticipated in early 2026. If the tariffs are not upheld, the decision could result in further actions by the administration under other trade authorities like Section 301 or Section 232.

Additionally, members should take note of a new request by the U.S. Trade Representative for public comments regarding China’s alleged noncompliance with a January 15, 2020, Economic and Trade Agreement (the Phase One agreement). The Phase One agreement kept Section 301 tariffs on List 4A at 15% on certain goods and delayed the implementation of tariffs on List 4B. It is not clear whether the administration intends to pursue further enforcement of the Phase One agreement in light of the recent agreements with China. The comment period and window to request to provide in-person testimony at a December 16 hearing closes on December 1.

October 27 Update

Administration Announces Updates on Trade Agreements with China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia

A number of trade and tariff developments took place over the weekend, including ongoing negotiations with China and new statements from the administration regarding trade agreements with Cambodia and Malaysia and frameworks for potential future agreements with Vietnam and Thailand.

China

President Trump and President Xi are scheduled to meet Thursday, October 30, to discuss a number of issues and hopefully ease trade tensions between China and the U.S. Recent escalations included threats of up to a 100% tariff on Chinese-origin goods imported into the U.S., additional port fees and export controls from both countries, and China’s failure to purchase American agricultural products, including soybeans. PeopleForBikes anticipates that both sides will temporarily pause imposing any additional trade measures while they discuss a framework for resolving these and other issues.

Vietnam

On October 26, the administration issued a joint statement regarding the framework for a trade agreement between the United States and Vietnam. While many details have yet to be determined, the statement included the following:

“The United States will maintain at 20% the reciprocal tariffs, as set forth in Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as amended, on originating goods of Vietnam, and will also identify products from the list set out in Annex III to Executive Order 14346 of September 5, 2025, Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners, to receive a zero percent reciprocal tariff rate.”

This provides some certainty with respect to the reciprocal tariff rate (20% plus base tariff rate) on goods imported from Vietnam, as well as the possibility of some goods being excluded from the reciprocal tariffs. However, the U.S. indicated its interest in addressing labor practices, duty evasion, and “any distortionary behaviors of state-owned enterprises.”

Thailand

A similar joint statement issued on October 26 announced the framework for a trade agreement with respect to Thailand. The framework will keep the reciprocal tariff rate on Thai goods at 19% and officially establish certain commitments from Thailand with respect to intellectual property, taxation of digital services, labor and environmental practices, “distortionary behaviors of state-owned enterprises,” and purchases of U.S. agricultural products and aircraft.

Cambodia

More progress was made with Cambodia, with the administration announcing an official trade agreement. The agreement sets favorable tariff rates for U.S. goods (Schedule 1) and excludes a long list of products from reciprocal tariffs (Schedule 2). With respect to goods listed on Schedule 2, the base tariff rates will apply, but not the reciprocal tariff rate. For goods not listed on Schedule 2, both the base tariff rate and a 19% reciprocal tariff will apply (Annex, page 3).

Bicycles, electric bicycles, and bicycle components are not listed on Schedule 2 and remain subject to both base tariffs and the 19% reciprocal tariffs.

The agreement also includes more defined language regarding intellectual property, forced labor and labor rights, and the status of state-owned or third country enterprises. It will likely serve as a model for the eventual agreements with Vietnam and Thailand. PeopleForBikes members are advised to review the entire agreement for potential impacts on their business. For example, Section 4 of the agreement authorizes a party to unilaterally impose new Rules of Origin:

“The Parties intend for the benefits of this Agreement to accrue substantially to them and their nationals. If benefits of this Agreement are accruing substantially to third countries or third-country nationals, a Party may establish rules of origin necessary to achieve the Parties’ intention for this Agreement.”

This language appears to be a reference to the origin of products that are benefiting from removal of reciprocal tariffs under the agreement. Section 5 then requires Cambodia to, “consistent with its sovereign interests,” adopt additional duties or other trade actions that the U.S. imposes on “third countries.” It remains to be seen exactly what sort of actions the U.S. may urge Cambodia to take in order to retain the benefits of this agreement.

Malaysia

Finally, the U.S. also reached a trade agreement with Malaysia. While very similar in most respects to the Cambodia agreement (including a Rules of Origin provision), there is some more specific language in Section 5.1 of the Malaysia agreement with respect to third countries:

“Malaysia shall adopt and implement measures, in accordance with its domestic laws and regulations, to address unfair practices of companies owned or controlled by third countries operating in Malaysia’s jurisdiction that result in —

(a) the export of below-market price goods to the United States;

(b) increased exports of such goods to the United States;

(c) a reduction in U.S. exports to Malaysia; or

(d) a reduction in U.S. exports to third-country markets.”

It is not clear whether the administration intends to submit these trade agreements to Congress, which has the authority to regulate trade with other countries under the Constitution. If so, Congress would also have the power to amend the agreements. If the administration intends to instead rely solely on IEEPA to regulate trade with these countries, that could be affected by pending litigation before the U.S. Supreme Court regarding the extent of the president’s authority.

October 21 Update

FINAL HOURS: Take Action to Oppose New 50% Tariffs

PeopleForBikes and the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) are calling on every U.S. bicycle retailer, supplier, and manufacturer to act before midnight tonight to oppose two new tariff requests that could devastate the bike industry.

On October 7, the U.S. Department of Commerce published 95 new requests for inclusion under the Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs. Two of these requests, filed by the Aluminum Extruders Council (AEC) and Guardian Bikes, would apply a 50% tariff on the aluminum and steel content of all imported bicycles, frames, and e-bikes.

If approved, these tariffs would dramatically increase prices, reduce product availability, and threaten jobs across the U.S. bicycle industry. The new duties would stack on top of existing base rates and Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports, pushing total import costs to unsustainable levels. Many products imported from China, already subject to combined duties exceeding 30–50%, would face additional 50% surcharges under Section 232, amplifying financial strain on retailers, suppliers, and consumers.

The Commerce Department’s public comment period closes at midnight ET on October 21, 2025, leaving just hours for the bicycle industry and community to respond. PeopleForBikes created detailed resources — including a template letter and talking points — to help companies and individuals submit comments quickly and effectively.

How to Act Now:

• Submit comments opposing both bicycle-related inclusion requests using the official links:
• Guardian Bikes request
• Aluminum Extruders Council request
• Personalize your submission to explain how these tariffs will harm your business and customers.
• Sign on to the NBDA’s industrywide letter to show collective opposition and demonstrate the united strength of the bicycle community.

This is our industry’s only opportunity to stop these tariffs before they take effect. Submitting comments TODAY is critical to protect U.S. bicycle retailers, manufacturers, and consumers, along with the national cycling ecosystem we’ve all worked hard to build.

October 7 Update

Stop Additional 50% Tariffs on Bikes and E-Bikes: Here’s How

The U.S. Commerce Department published 95 new requests for inclusion of derivative products in the Section 232 aluminum and steel tariffs. Two requests were made to add bicycles, frames and e-bikes to those tariffs.

If these two inclusion requests are granted, all bicycles and frames imported into the US from any country would be subject to a 50% tariff on both their steel and aluminum content. In addition, the value of the aluminum content of electric bicycles with motors greater than 250W would be subject to a 50% tariff. Importers would be required to determine and declare the value of the content of each metal on entry documentation. All non-steel or aluminum content would be subject to all other tariffs. Base tariffs and section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports would also still apply to the entire product.

Our only opportunity to oppose these requested tariffs will end on October 21st when the two-week comment period closes. PeopleForBikes will be submitting comments in opposition to these two requests and encourage industry allies to do the same. 

PeopleForBikes has created a template letter to prepare and submit a comment letter to the Commerce Department. We have also created talking points to state your opposition to the requests for inclusion. There are TWO requests for inclusion of bicycles, frames and electric bicycles, one from Guardian Bikes and the other from the Aluminum Extruders Council. You should submit a comment on EACH one with the same general information about your business, followed by arguments specific to that request. We suggest you create and then upload a letter through the links below, rather than type your comment into the website.

Please submit your response to the Aluminum Extruders Council comment HERE

Please submit your response to the Guardian Bikes comment HERE

Please reach out to Ash Lovell (ash@peopleforbikes.org) with any questions about this comment submission process. We suggest that you clearly define who your company is and how these tariffs will impact your American business as well as American consumers. Please put some time and effort into preparing your letter. This is your chance to tell the government how these tariffs will impact your business.

August 29 Update

Federal Appeals Court Rules IEEPA Tariffs Illegal, SCOTUS Review Likely

On Friday, August 29, a federal appeals court ruled in a 7-4 decision that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), including the 10% baseline tariff, fentanyl tariffs, and reciprocal tariffs, are unlawful because the president exceeded his statutory authority.

In an en banc decision issued Friday, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit upheld an earlier Court of International Trade ruling that the president improperly relied on the IEEPA to justify sweeping tariffs based on five executive orders declaring various emergencies. The court stopped short of deciding whether any president could ever use their power to declare an emergency to support tariffs, but stated the reasoning provided in these specific executive orders failed to meet the definition of an emergency. The court also sent the case back to the lower court to determine whether the decision applied to everyone affected by the tariffs, or only the individual companies and states that filed lawsuits.

The judgment is stayed until October 14 to allow time for a potential appeal to the Supreme Court. This means that IEEPA duties will continue to be collected and no duties already paid will be refunded unless the decision is upheld and the stay is lifted. It is likely that the administration will seek and obtain review by the Supreme Court, and a final decision could still be months away.

If the ruling is ultimately affirmed, it could disrupt much of the administration’s current trade structure, eliminating a significant revenue stream for the government, leaving numerous deals with other countries in limbo, and creating new uncertainty for importers. If the decision is reversed by the Supreme Court, IEEPA tariffs will remain in place.

In the meantime, most analysts believe the administration is likely to continue pursuing broad tariffs through other channels, such as Section 232 (national security tariffs on sectors like steel and aluminum) and Section 301 (tariffs targeting unfair trade practices) if IEEPA cannot provide a firm legal footing for its trade agenda.

In recent weeks, the administration expanded the scope of Section 232 steel tariffs to hundreds of additional derivative products, including electric bicycles, and launched new investigations that could extend duties to additional categories, including copper and computer chips.

PeopleForBikes will continue updating our members as more information becomes available.

August 19 Update

50% Section 232 Steel Tariff Now Applies to E-Bikes

In an announcement issued on August 15, U.S. Customs declared that electric bicycles were added to the list of derivative steel products subject to a 50% tariff under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This tariff will be applied to all electric bicycles and mopeds imported under HTS heading 8711.60 (including both 8711.60.0050 and 8711.60.0090) beginning at 12:01 a.m. on August 19, including in-transit products. Importers will need to calculate the steel content of their e-bikes and its value and report that value on entry documents. The only exception to the 50% rate is e-bikes made in the UK, which has a 25% tariff on steel content.

The value of the steel content is not subject to additional reciprocal tariffs, which apply only to non-steel content. In the case of Chinese imports, the entire value of an e-bike is also subject to 25% Section 301 tariffs and 20% IEEPA tariffs, just not the 10% reciprocal tariff currently in place under the 90-day pause. E-bikes were not added to the derivative aluminum products list.

Motorcycle and moped parts imported under HTS heading 8714.10 were also added to the derivative steel products list.

These changes to the Section 232 derivative products list were authorized under an “inclusion” process where industries and the public were able to propose that additional products be added to the steel and aluminum. It does not appear that any specific request was made to include e-bikes on the Section 232 steel products list.

PeopleForBikes members with questions about their specific products should consult with their broker or trade counsel. Please reach out to PeopleForBikes General and Policy Counsel Matt Moore at matt@peopleforbikes.org with further questions.

August 11 Update

Administration Extends Tariff Pause and Reshapes Trade Terms with China, Japan, EU, and Key Asian Exporters

On August 11, President Trump signed an executive order extending the pause on high U.S. tariffs for Chinese goods, granting negotiators another 90 days to work toward a deal.

The extension locks in the most recent U.S.-China trade terms, which reduced the newest tariffs on Chinese imports to 30% from a punishing 145% and restarted the flow of rare earth minerals critical to numerous industries from electronics to clean energy. The decision follows late-July talks in Stockholm that showed progress, even if a final agreement remains elusive.

Alongside the China news, the administration clarified new trade arrangements with Japan and the European Union. Both deals set a minimum tariff rate of 15% on all imports — a floor rather than an across-the-board surcharge. In practice, this means the total tariff on a bicycle with an 11% base duty from Europe or Japan would only rise to 15%, while an e-bike, currently duty-free, would see a bigger jump to 15%. Bicycle components with base duties between 0% and 10% would also move up to 15%. While these developments are not great for the bicycle industry, they are far less severe than the sweeping additional tariffs proposed in April.

Some countries, however, will face higher burdens. Under Annex I to the July 31 executive order announcing new reciprocal tariff rates, tariffs on goods imported from Cambodia (19%), Vietnam (20%), and Taiwan (20%) are described as “additional” to existing base rates. For example, a bicycle imported from Vietnam with an 11% base duty would carry a total tariff of 31%, while a currently duty-free e-bike from the same source would face a 20% tariff.

PeopleForBikes will continue to monitor ongoing developments, update our members, and engage with the administration on evolving tariff issues. If you have any questions, please reach out to PeopleForBikes Vice President of Government Relations Dr. Ash Lovell at ash@peopleforbikes.org.

August 1 Update

U.S. Announces Updated Global Tariff Plan, Sets 15% Minimum for Deficit Nations

On July 31, with hours remaining before a self-imposed trade policy deadline, the White House unveiled sweeping new tariffs affecting nearly every U.S. trading partner. The new tariffs are scheduled to take effect on August 7, with the exception of Canada.

Under the new plan, countries with which the United States maintains a trade surplus will face a flat 10% tariff rate. For the roughly 40 nations with which the U.S. runs a trade deficit, a new baseline tariff of 15% will apply. The move replaces the previous patchwork of “reciprocal” tariffs introduced in April and is part of what administration officials are calling a “universal” tariff strategy aimed at reshaping global trade dynamics.

A senior administration official stated that 26 of the deficit countries will face tariffs higher than the new 15% minimum, citing what the White House described as “excessive” trade imbalances. An abridged list of countries relevant to the bike industry is listed below. View the full list here.

The administration also announced it is raising tariffs on Canada to 35% beginning Friday, August 1, making it the first major trading partner to see immediate changes. The White House said goods compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement would not be subject to the higher rate, which would lessen the impact.

Notably, the United Kingdom, China, and Mexico were excluded from the new tariff plan, at least temporarily. Trump signed framework agreements with all three countries, though the agreement with China is set to expire within two weeks, potentially opening the door for increased tariffs in the near future.

The basis for these tariffs is being reviewed through active legal proceedings, with outcomes yet to be determined. President Trump invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to justify the tariffs, a move the Court of International Trade previously ruled as exceeding presidential authority. On Thursday, July 31, oral arguments began in the administration’s appeal. Judges reportedly expressed skepticism about the use of emergency powers to impose country-specific tariffs. A final ruling could take months, and any decision may ultimately be reviewed by the Supreme Court.

July 31 Update

New Executive Order Eliminates De Minimis Exemption, Restoring Fair Competition for U.S. Bike Industry

On July 30, the administration released a new executive order eliminating the de minimis import exemption for all countries. The order ends duty-free entry for shipments under $800, including bicycles, e-bikes, and related parts and accessories.

The executive order, effective at the end of August 2025, represents meaningful progress in correcting long-standing trade distortions while curbing the influx of unsafe, unregulated products into the U.S. The de minimis loophole, which allows shipments valued under $800 to enter the United States duty-free and with limited regulatory oversight, has enabled a surge of direct-to-consumer imports from China, often bypassing critical safety checks and undercutting U.S.-based businesses that comply with federal regulations and pay import duties and domestic taxes.

The Budget Reconciliation Bill, signed into law earlier this year, includes a similar provision that eliminates de minimis benefits starting in 2027 and also applies to all countries. While PeopleForBikes strongly prefers a legislative solution for its long-term durability, the executive action from the administration accelerates much needed relief for U.S. manufacturers, importers, and retailers struggling to compete under an uneven system.

July 28 Update

United States And Europe Agree On 15% Additional Tariff

On July 27, the United States and European Union announced a new tariff agreement establishing a 15% additional tariff on most European imports, avoiding previously threatened steeper rates. The 15% tariff is in addition to existing base tariffs on imported goods. While this provides some relief to the European Union, it is considered a framework agreement, with technical details still to be negotiated in the coming weeks. The 15% rate may be adjusted for specific goods through future exemptions or bilateral arrangements.

This new tariff level marks a significant increase from the pre-Trump average of 4.8%, signaling a long-term shift in trade policy. However, the agreement includes zero tariffs on key American exports such as aircraft, certain chemicals, and select generic drugs. The 15% rate also represents a reduction from the 30% tariffs previously considered by the U.S., easing tensions between the two economic blocs.

The U.S. also secured separate tariff deals with the UK, Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam. As trade negotiations with China are set to resume on July 28, PeopleForBikes will continue to monitor ongoing developments. The outcomes of these discussions will further shape global trade dynamics and could impact tariffs, market access, and supply chain stability.

July 9 Update

90-Day Pause on Reciprocal Tariffs Extended Until August 1

On July 7, the White House announced the "90-day pause" on reciprocal tariffs due to expire on July 9 is now extended until August 1. However, the administration began to notify countries (by letter) of new tariff rates for products imported into the United States, listed below.

Updated U.S. Tariff Rates on Imports

It is unclear how many of these countries have formally negotiated with the United States and how much flexibility there will be over the next three weeks prior to the August 1 implementation date.

The August 1 deadline and these tariff rates may also be extended at the discretion of the administration, although the president has indicated he has no present intention of doing so. We assume that many of these countries will reach out to the White House seeking further negotiation. PeopleForBikes expects more announcements about tariff agreements or new tariff rates will be forthcoming, and we will keep our members informed with the latest news through our industry newsletter, the Break.

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May 12 Update

U.S. and China Reduce Reciprocal Tariff Rates for 90 Days During Negotiations

On May 12, the United States and China issued a joint statement announcing their agreement on a 90-day pause on most of the tariffs imposed on each other during the last month. For the next three months, the combined U.S. additional tariff rate on imports from China will be cut to 30% from 145% while China’s levies on U.S. imports will be cut to 10% from 125%.

While this is positive news, the total import tariff on most bikes from China remains at 66% due to previously imposed tariffs. The 66% import tariff is calculated by combining the 11% base duty, 25% Section 301 tariffs, 20% fentanyl tariffs, plus the newly announced 10% reciprocal rate. Electric bicycles will have a 55% duty and most bicycle parts/components will have a 55–65% duty. 

These tariffs remain at an unsustainable level for the U.S. bicycle industry. While the conversations between the U.S. and China show signs of progress, the current tariffs are still broadly higher compared to tariff rates before Trump took office. These tariff levels are unlikely to stimulate imports or support U.S. manufacturers and consumer goods will likely continue to see price increases.

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April 29 Update

On April 7, an executive order on reciprocal tariffs was published in the Federal Register. Because the order contains specific provisions related to reciprocal tariffs, companies should review the official version of this executive order.

On April 8, the administration announced a complete three-month pause on all “reciprocal” tariffs that went into effect at midnight, with the exception of tariffs on China. This means that the implementation of reciprocal tariffs will not go into effect until July 9, 2025. Related to China, the administration increased tariffs to 125% from 104% after China announced additional retaliatory tariffs against the United States. With the previous 20% tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the total new tariffs on Chinese goods is at least 145%, not including base duty rates and any previously imposed Section 301 tariffs. All other countries that were subjected to increased reciprocal tariff rates will see those rates return to the universal 10% additional tariff rate until July 9.

Multiple lawsuits were filed challenging the president’s authority to impose tariffs on China under the IEEPA. One suit was filed by the New Civil Liberties Alliance in U.S. District Court in the Northern District of Florida. A copy of the complaint is available here. On April 16, California became the first state to sue over the administration’s tariffs. On April 23, 12 states sued the administration in the U.S. Court of International Trade, alleging that the administration lacked the authority to impose tariffs under the IEEPA and that the tariffs are unlawful and brought chaos to the American economy. PeopleForBikes is monitoring this litigation and will update this blog with any important developments.

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APRIL 4 UPDATE

Administration Clarifies Reciprocal Tariff Implementation

On April 4, the Trump administration published a full, 62-page version of the executive order on reciprocal tariffs that now includes an Annex III with formal modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) tariff code. The notice clarifies that the new 10% and per-country reciprocal tariffs are in addition to existing base tariffs on imported goods. For example, a bicycle that is imported from Taiwan will have a total tariff of 43% (11% base duty + 32% reciprocal tariff).

Updated targeted tariff rates for key source countries for the U.S. bicycle industry:

Exemptions for Shipments Loaded Before 12:01 a.m. EST on April 5, 2025

The revised executive order further clarifies that the 10% additional tariffs on all countries will not apply to “goods loaded onto a vessel at the port of loading and in transit on the final mode of transit or withdrawn from a warehouse for consumption” before April 5, 2025. Shipments that meet these requirements prior to April 9 will not be subject to reciprocal tariffs.

NEW TARIFFS FAQ

Lawsuit Filed to Halt Reciprocal Tariffs

A lawsuit has been filed in federal court in Florida in an effort to halt the new tariffs. Additional lawsuits may also be filed in the coming days. This follows a now familiar pattern of pushback against the administration’s new policies. PeopleForBikes will monitor this litigation as it progresses and update our members as new information becomes available. 

PeopleForBikes hosted a webinar for members of the bicycle industry on April 3 covering the new tariffs. You can access the webinar presentation below. Another webinar on trade and tariffs will take place on April 29 exclusively for PeopleForBikes Coalition members.

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APRIL 3 UPDATE

Trump Administration Announces Reciprocal Tariffs; End of De Minimis for Chinese Imports

On April 2, the Trump administration announced new reciprocal tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977 (IEEPA). This imposes an additional 10% tariff on products from all countries (base duty plus 10%) as well as specific, targeted higher base tariff rates on all goods from select countries the administration determined impose high tariffs and related barriers or costs — such as Value Added Tax (VAT) — on U.S. goods. Canada and Mexico were exempted from the new tariffs as they are currently subject to existing 25% tariffs.

Targeted tariff rates for key source countries for the U.S. bicycle industry:

A list of countries targeted for specific new tariff rates and the applicable rates are listed in Annex I of the executive order. The additional 10% tariffs will go into effect on April 5 at 12:01 a.m. EDT for all countries and the new targeted base tariffs will take effect on April 9 at 12:01 a.m. EDT. Neither tariff will apply to goods loaded onto a vessel at the port of loading and in transit on the final mode of transit prior to the respective effective date/time.

Future Tariffs for Countries That Import Oil From Venezuela

In previous updates, we informed you of potential new 25% tariffs on countries that the Secretary of Commerce determines have imported oil from Venezuela, most likely including China. These tariffs can be put into place at any time, and would be in addition to the new reciprocal tariffs. This could increase tariffs on Chinese goods by an additional 25%. The exact timing of these tariffs is uncertain and at the discretion of the Secretary of Commerce.  

The above analysis is based on the most current information available at the time of release (April 3, 2025). More specific information contained in annexes to the executive order and Federal Register notices are not yet available. It is possible that future actions by specific countries may result in the reduction — or increase — of these tariffs. PeopleForBikes will continue updating our members as further information becomes available.

De Minimis for Chinese Imports Ends May 2

In a second executive order, the administration announced that systems are now in place to collect duty on low-value shipments from China that previously received duty-free de minimis treatment. Accordingly, de minimis treatment for imports from China and Hong Kong valued at or under $800 will end on May 2. There will be two different processes depending on whether goods enter through postal shipment or through other carriers:

• Goods sent through the international postal network will be subject to a duty rate of either 30% of their value or $25 per item (increasing to $50 per item after June 1, 2025). Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) may require formal entry for any postal package instead of these specified duties.

• Goods sent through means other than the international postal network will be subject to all applicable duties, which will be collected under applicable entry and payment procedures.

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MARCH 25 UPDATE

Trump Administration Announces New Venezuelan Oil Tariff

On March 24, the administration issued an executive order directing the imposition of a 25% tariff on all products imported into the United States from countries that buy oil imported from Venezuela. The tariffs are being imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEPPA) based on several previous declarations related to Venezuela. While the exact details are yet to be confirmed, here is what we know about these new tariffs: 

• The tariffs will take effect “on or after April 2, 2025.”
• They will be “supplemental to duties on imports already imposed,” meaning they will be in addition to all other existing tariffs.
• The Secretary of State will have the discretion to determine which countries are importing Venezuelan oil and therefore be subject to the tariffs.
• The tariffs can be removed in the future, but will remain in effect for one additional year after the Secretary of Commerce determines that a country no longer sources oil from Venezuela

According to a 2024 report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the countries (other than the United States) that bought oil from Venezuela in 2023 and their share of those exports are:

1. China (68%)
2. Spain (4%)
3. Cuba (4%)
4. Singapore (1%)
5. Malaysia (.3%)
6. Vietnam (.01%)

These tariffs are primarily directed at imports from China, and they will be in addition to all other current tariffs (base tariff, 25% Section 301 tariff, 20% additional tariffs, and 25% steel and aluminum tariffs on some products). This means that after April 2nd, the total tariff on adult bicycles imported from China will be 81% and the tariff on e-bikes will be 70%.

Whether any other countries currently import Venezuelan oil, and will therefore be subject to an additional 25% tariff on exports to the United States after April 2, will be determined by the administration, and we expect future publication of notices with specific findings and actions. 

This analysis is based on the most current information available at the time of release (March 25, 2025). In recent weeks, the administration has announced new tariffs, then altered course prior to their implementation. PeopleForBikes will continue to update the industry as further information becomes available.

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FEBRUARY 28 UPDATE

On February 27, the Trump administration announced it would advance the previously paused 25% tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico effective March 4. The administration also promised to levy an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods starting the same date. The new tariffs are based on previously issued executive orders intended to address illegal immigration and fentanyl smuggling.

The newly announced 10% tariffs on all imports from China are in addition to Section 301 tariffs that began in 2018 and an earlier 10% additional tariff on Chinese goods. Unless another last-minute reprieve is announced, most bicycles made in China will soon face a base duty of 11%, Section 301 tariffs of 25%, and new tariffs of another 20% for total import duties of 56%. With the additional 10%, the total tariff on electric bicycles imported from China will have risen from zero (duty free) to 45% since June 2024. Bicycle components and accessories from China will have duty costs in the same range, depending on applicable base duty rates and Section 301 duties.

PeopleForBikes reviewed media reports of conflicting or contradictory statements by administration officials, and while the administration has consistently advanced broad policies of increasing tariffs and these announcements must be taken seriously, the actual implementation of tariffs has varied from initial plans. Negotiations with Canada and Mexico are ongoing, and it's possible these tariffs could be further delayed, reduced, or limited in scope either before or after March 4. The implications of ongoing uncertainty in the global trade environment for the bicycle industry continue to be both profound and worrisome. 

The administration also announced its intent to pursue reciprocal tariffs, which are currently being studied by the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). The agency’s report is due to the president by April 1, 2025. The administration said these reciprocal tariffs on all goods from all affected countries could go into effect as early as April 2. Because of the massive scope of these proposed tariffs and the likelihood that other countries will adjust their tariff rates to avoid reciprocal tariffs, actual implementation by U.S. Customs and Border Protection may require additional time.

PeopleForBikes remains committed to advancing favorable trade policies on behalf of the bike industry, including advocating for an exclusion process to obtain select relief from the newly enacted tariffs. While the administration has been clear up to this point that no exclusions will be granted when tariffs are enacted, legislators on both sides of the aisle understand the damaging effects these tariffs will have on businesses across the country. If the tariffs are effective in achieving the administration’s stated goals, there may be future opportunities for such relief. In the near term, however, that appears unlikely.

In response to urgent tariff developments, PeopleForBikes convened industry leaders in Washington D.C. from February 24-25 to meet with Democratic and Republican legislative staff and discuss trade and tariff challenges. We repeatedly heard that the most effective course of action is to write to your congress member and share how these tariffs and ongoing trade uncertainty are hurting your business. If you are interested in writing to your representatives on behalf of your business, please contact PeopleForBikes Vice President of Government Relations Dr. Ash Lovell at ash@peopleforbikes.org for more information.

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FEBRUARY 1 UPDATE

On Inauguration Day, President Trump issued a Memorandum titled the “America First Trade Policy.” The order directed several federal agencies to undertake comprehensive reviews of U.S. trade policy and all trade agreements as well as investigate adverse actions by other countries. These agencies are to report their findings and recommendations for actions to the president by April 1, 2025. The stated goal of the administration is to enact trade and economic policies “that put the American economy, the American worker, and our national security first.”

On Saturday, February 1, President Trump took the first steps toward this goal by issuing three executive orders imposing new 25% tariffs on all products from Canada and Mexico and a new 10% tariff on Chinese products. Here are the key features of the new tariffs:

• The tariffs go into effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Tuesday, February 4, 2025
• The tariffs apply to all goods with a country of origin of Canada, Mexico, or China
• There is a limited exception for goods “in transit” before February 1, 2025
• The only goods excepted are oil and energy from Canada, which have a 10% tariff
• There is no exclusion process 
• These tariffs are in addition to all tariffs currently in place (including existing Section 301 tariffs on Chinese-origin goods)
• Duty drawback cannot be claimed on these additional tariffs (duty cannot be recovered on goods imported into the U.S. and then exported)
• The Canadian government outlined retaliatory 25% tariffs on more than $100 billion U.S. goods to be implemented starting February 4. The full list of products covered under the Canadian tariffs can be found here.
• Mexico is expected to unveil their tariff response measures on Monday, February 3. 
• China also threatened countermeasures including filing a legal case at the World Trade Organization (WTO).
• Imports from China, Canada, and Mexico are no longer eligible for de minimis entry into the U.S. as of Tuesday, February 4.

A Federal Register notice will be published by U.S. Customs adding the new tariffs to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS). It is unclear how the new tariffs on hundreds of thousands of small shipments valued at under $800 that formerly entered under the de minimis exception will be collected.

These tariffs are being imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEPPA) based on Trump’s previous declaration of a national emergency. The new tariffs have no defined end date. Whether or when the tariffs will be reduced, removed, or increased is within the discretion of the president. While Congress could in theory remove the tariffs by joint resolution, that is unlikely.

The president stated that new tariffs on products from the European Union will also be imposed, perhaps as early as February 18.  

As a result of the new administration’s policies, the international trade landscape has become, and will remain, increasingly turbulent. PeopleForBikes recommends that bicycle manufacturers and importers review their supply chains and assess vulnerability to tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. Manufacturers should also consider the likelihood that retaliatory tariffs may impact exports to these countries.

As the U.S. bicycle industry’s trade association, PeopleForBikes advocates for pro-bike business policies and regulations at all levels of government. Between 2018 and 2024, PeopleForBikes and our members successfully advocated for numerous exclusions from previous Section 301 tariffs on e-bikes, children’s bicycles, and other products, saving the industry hundreds of millions in duty payments. PeopleForBikes remains committed to advancing favorable trade policies on behalf of the bike industry including retroactive authorization of the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). This legislation has bipartisan support in Congress and PeopleForBikes will continue supporting its passage. 

With these new tariffs in place, it is critical that executives and leaders across the bicycle industry work with PeopleForBikes to support outcomes that benefit bicycling and the bike business. If you have questions about the tariffs, or if you would like to discuss how to advocate effectively for your business, please contact PeopleForBikes Vice President of Government Relations Dr. Ash Lovell at ash@peopleforbikes.org for more information.