Implementation of New Reciprocal Duty Rates for India
At 12:01 AM EDT on August 27, 2025, the United States applied new reciprocal tariffs on articles imported from India. This update doubled the duty impact on many products, raising the total assessment to 50% in addition to existing duties, fees, and taxes.
What’s Changing
- Baseline Tariff Remains: Imports from India continue to face the existing 25% reciprocal tariff.
- New 25% Added: Goods loaded onto a vessel on or after August 27 will face an additional 25% ad valorem duty.
- Possible Exemptions: Products classified under HTS headings 9903.01.85 through 9903.01.89 — as well as certain other specified goods — may qualify for relief.
What This Means for Importers
- Costs Will Increase, unless exemptions apply; importers should budget for doubled duty exposure on Indian-origin shipments.
- Timing Is Critical; cargo loaded before the August 27 deadline remains under the current tariff structure.
- Exemption Review Required: Determining whether your products fall under exempted headings is essential to avoid overpayment.
How Coppersmith Supports You
For almost 80 years, we’ve guided clients through tariff changes calmly and effectively. With this update, our team is:
- Reviewing Product Classifications, confirming HS codes against the updated HTS exemption list.
- Advising on Duty Mitigation, including exploring available trade programs and structuring imports to minimize exposure.
- Monitoring Policy Shifts, staying in step with official announcements so clients have clear, timely information.
Steady Guidance Through Change
Tariffs rise and fall, but our role remains to protect your business with careful planning, clear compliance, and seasoned judgment. If you have shipments from India on the water or in planning, our team is ready to walk you through the duty impact and ensure you’re not caught off guard.
Contact Coppersmith Global Logistics today for classification reviews and duty guidance on your India imports.
