The Trump administration has activated a wide-reaching tariff campaign worldwide but paused key reciprocal tariffs until July 9 to allow space for negotiations with the EU and other regions. With only the UK deal finalized so far, all eyes are on whether deals with the EU, China, and Canada can be sealed in the next three weeks.

US‑China Framework Takes Shape

On June 10 in London, U.S. and Chinese officials reached a framework agreement, triggering a temporary drop of Chinese tariffs from 145% to 30%, effective mid-May. That move sparked a surge in imports, but it’s a short-term fix awaiting a comprehensive deal.

EU in Negotiation Mode

Tariffs on EU aluminum, steel, and autos (initially set at 25% and threatened at 50%) have been delayed until July 9, giving the EU breathing room to offer a flat 10% tariff across selected exports in return for tariff relief on autos and steel. Brussels is under pressure to act fast, especially ahead of the G‑7 summit.

UK Deal Signed, Steel Still Hanging

A U.S.–UK trade agreement signed June 16 includes tariff cuts: British autos to face 10% duty, aerospace exports gain exemptions, and a path toward steel/aluminum duty relief but rules over origin criteria remain unresolved.

Canada Hit Hard by Steel Tariffs

Canadian steel producers are reeling from the June 3 tariff hike from 25% to 50%. With many workers laid off, Ottawa is reportedly planning stronger pushes for a deal, either through talks or its own counter‑tariffs .

Court Drama in the U.S.

The Liberation Day tariffs, a sweeping 10% base plus reciprocal duties, were struck down by a lower court under the IEEPA; but that decision is under appeal, allowing tariffs to remain temporarily in place.

What It Means for the Supply Chain

• Shifting volumes & rates: Import surges ahead of tariff deadlines have driven transient container rushes, but ocean shipping costs are now down following front-loading activity.
• Business uncertainty: Firms must navigate a volatile mix of temporary truce deals and looming tariff reinstatements, making inventory, pricing, and route planning tricky.
• Potential consumer impact: If tariffs remain or escalate, expect higher prices at checkout, especially for autos, appliances, steel-intensive goods, and tech.

With the July 9 deadline fast approaching, importers, exporters, and supply chain leaders can’t afford to wait on the sidelines. Temporary tariff pauses, partial deals, and ongoing court challenges make the trade environment volatile, but also full of opportunity for those who stay informed and prepared.

Businesses should actively:

• Monitor deal developments (especially with the EU, China, and Canada)

• Review landed cost projections

• Reassess sourcing, inventory, and routing strategies

This isn’t just a policy story, it’s a bottom-line issue. The next few weeks could redefine international cost structures, trade lanes, and logistics decisions well into 2026.