Tariffs, trade spats, executive orders… sometimes it feels like you need a full-time analyst just to keep up. At MSN Packaging, we keep our eye on the latest policy moves so you can focus on what matters: building great products. Here’s the latest scoop on U.S.–China tariffs in 2025 — and how smart packaging swaps can actually lower your costs.
📅 2025 Timeline: Key Moves That Matter
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Feb 1, 2025 — The U.S. adds a 10% fentanyl tariff on imports from China.
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Apr 2, 2025 — Trump announces sweeping reciprocal tariffs (Executive Order 14257).
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Apr 8–10, 2025 — Rapid escalation leads to higher effective duty rates across categories.
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May 12–14, 2025 — U.S. and China agree to a 90-day pause on some reciprocal tariffs.
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Aug 11, 2025 — Truce extended through Nov 10, 2025.
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Aug 29, 2025 — The de minimis exemption for China is removed — small parcels now face duties.
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Sep 15, 2025 — A framework deal on TikTok hints at thawing negotiations.
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Sep 19–23, 2025 — Trump announces plans to meet Xi at APEC, with Boeing and agriculture on the table.
👉 Bottom line: tariffs remain layered, capped, and volatile. We’re in a truce — not a resolution.
📌 The Current Tariff Picture
Here’s what you’re facing right now:
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Reciprocal tariffs capped at around 30% in many categories.
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Legacy Section 301 duties are still in effect.
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No more de minimis for China: even small shipments get taxed.
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Court challenges on tariff authority are ongoing — things could shift again.
✈️ Trump, Xi & What’s Coming Next
Trump and Xi are expected to meet at APEC in late October/early November 2025 — with another U.S. delegation already in Beijing this month. Talks are expected to focus on:
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Tech carveouts (TikTok, semiconductors)
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Ag purchases & export access
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Boeing & aerospace supply chain
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Possible tariff rollbacks or extensions
The next key date is November 10, 2025. If no extension or deal happens, tariff escalation could resume fast.
💡 How Packaging Can Protect Your Margins
Not all materials are hit the same way. Plastics often face higher duty stacking, while paper-based CR (compostable/recyclable) packaging typically sits in a more favorable tariff position.
That’s where your packaging choices can save real money.
✅ Custom Printed Plastic-Free Tubes with Paper Button — premium, durable, and designed to avoid plastic-specific surcharges.
✅ Button-Free Paper Tubes — Twist & Turn Opening — fewer parts, no plastic inserts, and simple to classify at customs.
🔭 What to Watch Next
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The Trump–Xi APEC meeting and whether tariffs get rolled back or extended.
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Industry carveouts (agriculture, aerospace, select tech).
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Court rulings on executive tariff powers.
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More changes to de minimis rules.
🚀 Let’s Keep You Ahead
At MSN Packaging, we do more than just supply packaging. We help you stay ahead of shifting trade rules and design packaging that protects your bottom line.
Check out our tariff-friendly product options and let’s talk about how we can help your business weather the tariff rollercoaster.