Editorial staff
Trading goods in the US under the current President Trump administration is unpredictable. This is because the US market is subject to frequent, significant changes in tariff rates based on ongoing political and economic considerations. Another vital issue is the stricter immigration policies and new compliance requirements, requiring foreign investors and entrepreneurs to be proactive and make informed decisions. As such, foreign entrepreneurs or investors requesting (requested?) an E1 Visa to trade in the US in 2026 must comply with the current US trade regulations. This article explains the US changing trade rules, including President Donald Trump’s immigration and trade policies, common compliance mistakes and how to avoid them, and other essential details.
Why Is the US Changing Trade Rules?
The US is changing trade rules to pursue “America First" policies, focusing on reducing trade deficits, boosting domestic industries, and tackling unfair currency manipulation. It also aims to move away from multilateral systems, such as the World Trade Organization (WTO), towards bilateral deals. This reflects a shift towards economic nationalism and protectionism.
How Trump’s New Policy Affects Trading Goods in the US
Trump’s immigration and trade policies have significantly complicated trade in the US under the current administration. On April 2, 2025, an executive order was issued declaring a national emergency due to US trade deficits and non-reciprocal trade practices. This order imposed a 10% ad valorem duty on virtually all goods imported into the US, effective April 5, 2025.
This tariff is often layered on top of existing duties. This means that goods previously entering the US under low or minimal duty rates may now draw significant responsibilities, depending on the country and product type. A subsequent product-specific or country-specific tariff imposed on steel, aluminium, and copper further complicates the import situation. These changes raise compliance risks, increase costs, and heighten the need for careful planning for companies outside the US that aim to export or trade goods into the American market.
Common Compliance Mistakes Foreign Traders Make in the US
Foreign traders and business owners on the E1 visa USA must understand the US import rules to avoid the following common compliance mistakes:
Ignoring Country-specific Rules
Some countries now face additional product-specific tariffs, while others benefit from exemptions. Exporters who do not verify country-of-origin implications before shipping products commit a huge error. This may result in financial losses, heavy fines, and shipment holds at the border.
Incorrect HTS Classification
The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) regulates duty rates. Using the wrong HTS code, even by a single digit, can result in incorrect duties, fines, and shipments held at ports. It can also result in a later reassessment by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This mistake often stems from a lack of product knowledge or a misunderstanding of complex tariff rules.
Not Updating Operations to Reflect New Tariffs
A significant change since April 2025 is the 10% across-the-board tariff imposed by the US government under its Executive Order. Businesses may face unexpected losses or supply chain disruptions if they fail to update their price models. This might also be the case if they do not update contracts with distributors and omit landing cost calculations.
Inaccurate or Incomplete Documentation
Missing or poorly prepared documentation can lead to a common mistake among US traders, resulting in delays. Traders must ensure the accuracy and completeness of the following documents:
- Bill of lading
- Commercial invoices
- Product safety or compliance certificates (if applicable)
- Certificate of origin
The CBP heavily relies on documentation to verify product classification, valuation, and origin. As such, if they believe that the provided documents are insufficient, they may require traders to provide additional evidence or detain the shipment.
How to Avoid Legal Issues When Trading Goods in the US in 2026
To avoid legal issues when trading goods in the US in 2025 as an entrepreneur or businessperson, you must ensure the following:
Understand Country-specific Tariff Rates
Always check the latest duty schedules before trading. You can replace manual calculations with automated duty calculators by integrating trade compliance software that provides real-time rate updates.
Accurate Classification and Valuation
Before exporting products, you must ensure that each product is classified under the correct Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. Always remember that a wrong digit can result in miscalculation, and this can cost your business huge penalties. Also, always declare the full commercial value, freight, insurance, and other costs of running your business to the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Comprehensive Documentation
You must maintain complete and accurate records. This includes documentation such as commercial invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and any relevant compliance or safety certificates for regulated goods. Avoid poor documentation, as it can lead to customs delays and penalties.
Work with an Experienced Immigration Lawyer
Due to the complexity and volatility of US immigration rules under the current Trump administration, it is ideal to work with a professional immigration lawyer. An immigration lawyer can assist you with their decades of experience navigating US customs rules. This experience can help you avoid mistakes and ensure smoother entry of your goods into the US, without breaching the US immigration rules.
Conclusion
Trading goods in the US has become more complex due to import restrictions under the Trump administration, 2025–2026. This complexity stems from broad new tariffs, product-specific levies, and other stringent rules. This situation can result in unexpected costs, compliance issues, and supply chain disruptions for entrepreneurs. As a foreign entrepreneur or businessperson looking to enter the American market, you can unlock your full business potential with the E1 visa USA. With appropriate guidance from a professional immigration lawyer, you can avoid all the common compliance mistakes mentioned. An immigration lawyer can ensure you meet all the E1 visa USA eligibility requirements and comply with US immigration rules to avoid legal issues trading in the US.
Editorial staff
