Article US Lifts Nuclear-Related Sanctions on Iran Michelle Schulz and Elsa Manzanares . November 29, 2016 What It Means for International Trade Compliance On January 16, 2016—known as “Implementation Day”—the United States officially lifted certain nuclear-related sanctions on Iran  under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Following verification by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) that Iran had met its nuclear commitments, the U.S. removed select secondary sanctions, creating new opportunities for non-U.S. companies  to engage in trade with Iran. Limited Relief for U.S. Companies Despite the significant move, the primary U.S. trade embargo on Iran remains in effect . For most U.S. businesses, transactions involving Iran are still broadly prohibited under existing sanctions law. However, three key areas of limited relief  are now authorized: Export of Commercial Aircraft and Parts U.S. and foreign companies may apply for a license to export or lease aircraft and related services for civil aviation use only . Import of Foodstuffs and Carpets A general license now permits U.S. imports of Iranian-origin carpets and foodstuffs  (e.g., pistachios and caviar). Foreign Subsidiaries of U.S. Companies (General License H) Non-U.S. entities owned or controlled by U.S. persons may conduct business with Iran— but with strict limitations and compliance requirements . Sanctions Relief for Non-U.S. Persons The U.S. lifted certain secondary sanctions  affecting non-U.S. persons engaged in trade with Iran in sectors like: Energy, shipping, and shipbuilding Trade in metals, gold, and software Automotive and civil aviation sectors Financial and insurance services However, U.S. persons may not participate  in these transactions, and such transactions must not involve the U.S. financial system. Compliance Still Essential Even with this sanctions relief, businesses must navigate a complex legal environment governed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) . Specific and general licenses are still required, and any transaction with Iran demands careful due diligence  and legal oversight. Considering business with Iran under JCPOA-related relief?Schulz Trade Law  can help you evaluate risk, apply for OFAC licenses, and ensure full compliance with U.S. sanctions regulations. Contact Michelle Schulz or Elsa Manzanares  for tailored legal guidance in international trade law. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

June 3, 2025 Local businesses prepare as Trump's 50% steel, aluminum tariffs hit Wednesday Legal fights over tariffs could end up at the Supreme Court. NBC 5 / KXAS-TV @NBCDFW Reporter: Vince Sims, https://www.facebook.com/VinceSimsNBC5 Michelle Schulz at 1:17 Steel & Aluminum Tariffs Could Spark Supreme Court Battle, Impacting U.S. Businesses As the U.S. prepares for a sharp 50% tariff increase on steel and aluminum imports, set to take effect this Wednesday under former President Donald Trump, small businesses are bracing for economic turbulence. At False Idol Brewing in North Richland Hills, aluminum cans are a critical part of their operation. Co-founder Brandon Pitzer says the immediate impact is delayed, but price increases are inevitable. “We already pay higher costs than large-scale producers,” Pitzer notes, highlighting the pressure these international trade tariffs  place on smaller operations. While business owners try to stay flexible, legal experts suggest the battle over these tariffs may be far from over. “There's always a chance that it will go all the way up to the Supreme Court,”  said Michelle Schulz , founder and managing partner of Schulz Trade Law. “I think you also have to be agile, be ready to pivot, but maybe expect the worst, plan for the best—or vice versa.” These sweeping changes to U.S. trade policy  raise serious concerns for importers, manufacturers, and supply chain managers alike. Companies need to stay informed and legally prepared. If your business is affected by new or existing tariffs, or you need strategic guidance on international trade compliance, contact Schulz Trade Law today. Our team of seasoned trade lawyers  can help you navigate the shifting legal landscape with agility and confidence. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

The Role of International Agreements in Trade June 4, 2015 For more Trade Law Resources, view our Resource Library. International trade has become a vital aspect of the global economy. Countries aim to foster better relationships, enhance market access, and ensure sustainable development through international agreements. Understanding the significance of these agreements is crucial for governments, businesses, and consumers alike. This blog post delves into the role of international agreements in trade, exploring their benefits, types, and real-world implications. Understanding International Agreements International agreements are legal contracts between two or more countries. These agreements can cover various areas, including trade, environmental policies, labor standards, and human rights. Their main aim is to create a framework that encourages cooperation and facilitates smoother interactions among nations. One of the most significant aspects of international agreements is their ability to reduce trade barriers. Tariffs, quotas, and other restrictions can hinder trade flows, leading to higher prices for consumers and reduced competitiveness for businesses. By negotiating agreements, countries can lower these barriers, thereby promoting free trade and economic growth. A bustling trade fair exemplifying international trade agreements in action. The Importance of International Agreements in Trade International agreements play a vital role in shaping trade policies and enhancing economic relationships. Here are several key reasons why they are important: Promoting Economic Growth One of the most significant benefits of international agreements is their capacity to stimulate economic growth. By opening markets, countries can increase their exports, leading to greater production and job creation. For instance, the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now replaced by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), significantly increased trade between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As this agreement reduced trade barriers, it allowed businesses to expand into new markets, generating jobs and boosting local economies. Enhancing Market Access International agreements provide businesses with access to new markets. When countries enter into trade agreements, they often agree to eliminate tariffs and other barriers. This accessibility encourages competition, innovation, and variety for consumers. For example, the European Union (EU) enables member states to trade without tariffs, allowing companies to sell products across borders effortlessly. The European Union flag representing the collaboration among countries in trade agreements. Ensuring Fair Trade Practices International agreements also serve to establish fair trade practices. They create standards that countries must follow, ensuring that businesses operate under the same rules and regulations. This fosters a level playing field, enabling both small and large enterprises to compete fairly. Agreements often include clauses on labor rights, environmental protections, and product standards, contributing to sustainable and equitable trade practices. Strengthening Political Relationships Trade agreements can help to strengthen diplomatic relationships between countries. By engaging in mutually beneficial agreements, countries can lower the likelihood of conflicts and enhance collaboration on various issues. For instance, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) involves countries from diverse regions, promoting not only trade but also political ties. Influencing Global Standards Lastly, international agreements often influence global standards for goods and services. As countries adopt common regulations, these standards can set benchmarks that other nations may follow. For example, the World Trade Organization (WTO) establishes guidelines that member countries adhere to, impacting international trade regulations worldwide. The Various Types of International Trade Agreements International agreements can be categorized into several types, each serving a unique purpose. Here are some of the most common: Bilateral Agreements Bilateral agreements are contracts between two countries. They often pertain to trade, investment, and cooperation on various issues. An example of a bilateral agreement is the United States-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS), which aimed to reduce tariffs and increase trade between the two nations. Multilateral Agreements Multilateral agreements involve three or more countries. These agreements can encompass various sectors, extending beyond trade. A prime example is the World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, which establish a comprehensive framework for international trade regulations among member countries. Regional Trade Agreements These agreements are formed among countries within a specific geographical area. The ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) is a regional agreement promoting trade among Southeast Asian nations by reducing tariffs. Such agreements can enhance regional economic integration and cooperation. Free Trade Agreements Free trade agreements (FTAs) are designed to promote unrestricted trade between signatories by reducing or eliminating tariffs on goods and services. For instance, the free trade agreements within the EU exemplify how FTAs can enhance market access and economic collaboration among member countries. Challenges and Criticisms of International Agreements While international agreements bring numerous benefits, they also face criticisms and challenges. Here are a few notable concerns: Economic Disparities One criticism is that international agreements may exacerbate economic disparities. Smaller or developing nations may find it challenging to compete with larger, more developed countries. Consequently, the gap between rich and poor nations might widen, leading to unequal benefits from the agreements. Regulatory Challenges Each country has its regulatory framework, which can lead to conflicts in international agreements. Harmonizing different regulations can be complex and time-consuming, causing delays and challenges in implementation. For instance, differing safety standards can hinder trade in certain sectors. Public Backlash Public opposition can also emerge in response to international agreements. Concerns about job losses, environmental degradation, and the influence of multinational corporations can fuel protests and resistance. Governments must address these concerns transparently to maintain public support for such agreements. The Future of International Agreements in Trade Looking ahead, the role of international agreements in trade will likely continue to evolve. With globalization and technological advancements, these agreements will need to adapt to new challenges and opportunities. Here are some potential trends to consider: Digital Trade Agreements As e-commerce grows, digital trade agreements will become increasingly significant. These agreements will focus on how countries manage cross-border data flows, privacy regulations, and e-commerce standards. Countries may need to negotiate terms that facilitate a smooth digital trade environment. Environmental Sustainability Sustainability is becoming a prominent factor in trade agreements, with countries recognizing the need to address climate change and environmental issues. Future agreements may incorporate stricter environmental standards to promote sustainable trade practices and reduce ecological impact. Regionalism vs. Globalism The landscape of international trade is witnessing a shift toward regionalism, where countries prioritize regional agreements over multilateral ones. This shift could redefine global trade dynamics, leading to new partnerships and collaborations. Final Thoughts International agreements play an essential role in shaping trade and fostering global economic interdependence. They promote growth, enhance market access, and establish fair practices in a complex global landscape. While challenges exist, the future of international agreements also holds promise with evolving trends in digital trade and sustainability. By understanding the nuances of international agreements, stakeholders can navigate the world of trade more effectively, utilizing these frameworks to foster collaboration and innovation for the benefit of all parties involved. Resource Library Learn more about Trade Law We have a series of articles highlighting the key components of international trade and compliance. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

Security in EMS: CMMC and ITAR Best Practices CalcuQuote October 9, 2024 In this CalcuQuote   panel discussion, experts Michelle Schulz  and Matt Konda  delve into the critical role of security in electronics manufacturing services (EMS), with a sharp focus on navigating the complexities of CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) and ITAR best practices (International Traffic in Arms Regulations). Their insights underscore the need for robust compliance, proactive security measures, and adaptability in a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The Imperative of ITAR Compliance For companies in the defense and aerospace sectors, ITAR compliance is non-negotiable. Schulz emphasizes that ITAR registration is the foundational step before exporting controlled products. Failure to comply risks severe penalties, making it essential for firms to prioritize adherence to these regulations from the outset. Tailored Compliance Programs One size does not fit all in compliance. Conda advocates for custom compliance plans tailored to a company’s specific operations. By aligning internal processes with regulatory requirements, businesses can mitigate risks and streamline operations, ensuring they meet ITAR and other standards efficiently. Navigating Global Regulations Expanding internationally introduces additional complexity. Schulz highlights that laws governing controlled products vary across countries, requiring companies to carefully assess and adapt to global regulations. This global perspective is crucial for EMS firms aiming to scale without running afoul of local or international laws. Leveraging CMMC for Enhanced Security The discussion also explores the synergy between CMMC and ITAR. Conda explains that aligning with CMMC guidelines not only strengthens a company’s cybersecurity posture but also bolsters ITAR compliance. This dual benefit makes CMMC a valuable framework for EMS firms looking to enhance their security infrastructure. Security as a Strategic Advantage Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, robust security measures offer competitive advantages. Schulz notes that proactive cybersecurity—such as advanced threat detection and secure data handling—can protect intellectual property and build client trust, positioning companies as leaders in the EMS industry. The Role of Continuous Education Maintaining compliance is an ongoing effort. Both experts stress the importance of continuous training and self-assessment to keep pace with evolving regulations. Regular education ensures that staff remain vigilant and equipped to handle new challenges, from updated CMMC requirements to shifts in ITAR enforcement. The panel concludes with a clear message: in the EMS sector, security and compliance are not just obligations but opportunities to build resilience and trust. By embracing tailored strategies, global awareness, and ongoing education, companies can thrive in a highly regulated environment. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

Dallas Businesses Are Confused, Overwhelmed, and Hesitant Over Tariffs D Magazine Frontburner By Dylan Duke | April 15, 2025 Trump’s tariffs are poised to pose huge challenges to international trade, and it seems that Dallas businesses were largely caught off guard. On the evening of April 7 in a Preston Center law firm conference room, a group of confident-looking European business owners and smart-sounding American logistics professionals gathered to discuss one thing: their anxiety and confusion over Trump’s looming tariffs. The meeting was led by a task force formed by the European American Chamber of Commerce, but even they didn’t pretend they weren’t confused by the flurry of hourly announcements about the tariffs, a tax on imported material and products that businesses have to pay. The meeting reflected a lot of the fear and hesitancy business leaders have expressed in recent months over Trump’s decision to launch a trade war against the entire world, using tariffs as his primary tool. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is the cabinet member tasked with enacting, enforcing, and explaining Trump administration tariffs. Those tariffs have drawn the ire of protestors, businesses, unions, lawmakers, and other countries. Reid Glenn / USA TODAY NETWORK and Evan Lasseter / Savannah Morning News / USA TODAY NETWORK Dallas International Law Professional weighs in on Tariffs Schulz Trade Law founder and EACC task force member Michelle Schulz , who spends a great deal of time helping businesses remain compliant with international trade law, says many of her clients are exploring trade alternatives due to the recent tariffs. “Pretty much all the companies that we work with, they’re in one crisis or another,” Schulz said. She explains that a big part of the reason why is because a lot of Dallas companies use the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), a free trade agreement signed in 2020 to promote the North American economy. “Now the complexity has increased,” she said. “If you want to use the USMCA, you have to now understand whether other tariffs apply at the same time, and whether you can calculate your U.S. content correctly in order to exclude it. So I think that just our location being so close to Mexico and right in the center of the country, it means that companies who are taking advantage of the USMCA may or may not be able to continue the way that they’re doing business—they’ll have to make a change.” Please continue at D Magazine to read the full article About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

May 29, 2025 ‘We have a little bit of a reprieve’ before new tariff rules can be implemented, trade lawyer says Michelle Schulz, founder and managing partner at Schulz Trade Law, discusses what’s next for tariffs after a court blocks U.S. President Donald Trump's “reciprocal” duties. Founder and Managing Partner Michelle Schulz at Schulz Trade Law PLLC, discusses what’s next for tariffs after a court blocks the “reciprocal” duties imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump on CNBC this morning. Court Ruling Halts Trump’s Emergency Tariffs, Delays Future Plans In a CNBC interview , Michelle Schulz of Schulz Trade Law unpacked a court decision blocking the Trump administration’s tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The ruling voids existing tariff orders and bars their enforcement, citing the IEEPA’s limited scope. The court questioned whether the tariffs addressed a "true emergency," as outlined in the 49-page opinion. While this pauses IEEPA-based tariffs, Schulz highlighted that the administration could turn to other mechanisms, like Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum or Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods. However, these require lengthy investigations by the Commerce Department to prove economic harm, involving public comments and data collection. This process could delay new tariffs for months, offering businesses temporary relief. "The commerce department has to gather a lot of information, and it can take months and months. So, in my mind, we have a little bit of a reprieve for a good period of time before another set of rules is going to be acceptable." The ruling underscores the complexities of tariff imposition and signals a slower, more scrutinized approach if the administration pursues alternative paths. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

Impact of Trump's Tariff Ruling on Markets and Trade Relations EWTN News Nightly May 29, 2025 A recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, stating that the president overstepped his authority. The Trump administration has strongly criticized the decision and is appealing, vowing to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the tariffs have faced multiple lawsuits, and markets remain uncertain about the potential economic impact moving forward. Michelle Schulz, founder of Schulz Trade Law P.L.L.C. and trade counsel for major corporations, joins to discuss the implications of this ongoing legal battle and its effect on global markets. She provides insight into whether these new rulings might bring stability or further uncertainty, and explores the broader question of trust between the U.S. and its trading partners as tensions continue to mount. A recent ruling by the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs, stating that the president overstepped his authority. The Trump administration has strongly criticized the decision and is appealing, vowing to take the case all the way to the Supreme Court. Meanwhile, the tariffs have faced multiple lawsuits, and markets remain uncertain about the potential economic impact moving forward. Michelle Schulz , founder of Schulz Trade Law P.L.L.C . and trade counsel for major corporations, joins to discuss the implications of this ongoing legal battle and its effect on global markets. She provides insight into whether these new rulings might bring stability or further uncertainty, and explores the broader question of trust between the U.S. and its trading partners as tensions continue to mount. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

"Tariff Whiplash" is Real Merit TV Merit Street Media May 30, 2025 Michelle Schulz joins Loni Coombs on Dr. Phil's Merit TV to explain the legal chaos surrounding Trump’s emergency tariffs. A lower court blocked them, but an appeals court put them back in place—at least for now. About Us We are a dedicated team of trade law professionals, committed to helping businesses navigate the complexities of international regulations and tariffs. With deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach, we provide clear, actionable insights to protect your interests and drive success in a dynamic global market. Contact Us Stay ahead of trade law changes! Contact us today for guidance on tariffs and regulations to safeguard your business.

February 7, 2025 President Trump's new tariffs on imports from China, effective February 4, 2025, and the now suspended tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada have left many in the trade industry reeling this past week. These developments carry significant implications for companies engaged in international trade. Here’s a quick recap: 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 10% tariff on imports from China 25% tariff on most imports from Canada and Mexico Canadian crude oil faces a reduced 10% tariff International transport and shipping 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐏𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐬 The tariffs on Mexico and Canada have been suspended for one month following negotiations but could still be implemented. The China tariffs went into effect February 4, 2025. China imposed retaliatory measures, including a 15% tariff on American coal and liquified natural-gas products as well as a 10% tariff on crude oil, agricultural machinery, and large-engine cars. If the tariffs against Canada and Mexico are implemented, we can expect retaliatory measures from them as well, potentially escalating into a broader trade conflict. 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬 Disruption of supply chains and increased costs for U.S. businesses Higher consumer prices for a wide range of goods Possible job losses in certain sectors Effects on manufacturing-heavy states and industries such as automotive, semiconductors, and energy 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐥𝐳 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐰 𝐏𝐋𝐋𝐂 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭 As international trade law experts, Schulz Trade Law PLLC can help companies navigate these challenging times: 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐆𝐮𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: We can provide up-to-date information on the evolving tariff situation and help you understand how it affects your business. 𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐬: Our team can assist in reviewing and optimizing your supply chain to minimize the impact of new tariffs. 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐟𝐟 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: We can help ensure your products are correctly classified to avoid unnecessary tariffs. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: Our experts can work with you to develop strategies for mitigating the effects of the trade war on your business, including claiming duty drawback or utilizing Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs). 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: We offer support in maintaining compliance with new trade regulations and recordkeeping and documentation requirements. 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: If needed, we can represent your interests before relevant government agencies. Contact Schulz Trade Law PLLC today to ensure your business is prepared for the challenges and opportunities presented by this evolving trade situation. 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐔𝐬: https://www.schulztradelaw.com

Effective: May 2, 2025 May 2, 2025 Trade Update:  Beginning May 2, 2025, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will end de minimis duty exemptions for low-value shipments from China and Hong Kong, including goods sent through the postal network. China Imports This in China and Hong Kong imports policy shift follows an Executive Order intended to curb the exploitation of low-value shipments in the trafficking of synthetic opioids. The new requirements apply differently based on how goods are shipped: Non-postal shipments:  Goods valued at or under $800 that previously qualified for duty-free treatment under the de minimis rule will now be subject to standard duties, assessed and collected under normal entry procedures. Postal shipments:  Goods at or under the $800 threshold will be subject to a flat duty – either 30% of the item’s value or $25 per item. This flat rate increases to $50 per item starting June 1, 2025, and replaces other applicable duties. Carriers handling postal shipments must also comply with new reporting, bonding, and payment requirements. Schulz Trade Law PLLC is here to support your business with all trade compliance needs and help you navigate a rapidly changing regulatory landscape. Stay up to date with our Tariff Tracke r . Contact Schulz Trade Law

May 12, 2025 A recent joint statement between the United States and China announced that the United States has committed to reducing the IEEPA/reciprocal tariffs on May 14. Specifically, the United States will commit to the following actions for a 90-day period: Reduce the 34% reciprocal tariff rate imposed on April 2 to 10% . Remove the 125% additional duties imposed on April 8 and 9 . Chinese goods will still be subject to an additional 20% IEEPA tariff rate imposed on February 1, 2025, pursuant to Executive Order 14195. As a result,  Chinese goods will still be subject to an additional tariff rate of 30% , which will continue to stack on Section 301 duties. The reduced tariff rates shall also apply to Hong Kong and Macau. Likewise, China will commit to the following actions for a 90-day period: Reduce China’s 34% retaliatory tariff rate on U.S. goods to 10%. Remove any additional duties imposed on U.S. goods after April 2, 2025. Remove any non-tariff countermeasures imposed after April 2, 2025. Therefore,  U.S. goods will only be subject to an additional tariff rate of 10%. As previously stated, the United States and China have only committed to reducing the tariff rates temporarily – specifically 90 days. An executive order has not been issued, and therefore U.S. and China tariff rates are still subject to change. In addition, the decrease in tariffs will not be retroactive. Thus, businesses should remain cautious until reduced tariff rates are in permanent effect. Stay up to date with our Tariff Tracker . Contact Schulz Trade Law

May 14, 2025 In a visit to Saudi Arabia yesterday, President Trump met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud and spoke at the US-Saudi Investment Forum.  During his speech, President Trump made an announcement that he “will be ordering the cessation of sanctions against Syria in order to give them a chance at greatness.” photo from BBC Syria Sanctions Syria has been designated a State Sponsor of Terrorism since December 1979.  Sanctions imposed by the US included the Syrian government, the Central Bank of Syria, senior Syrian government officials, and individuals and entities supporting the Assad regime and/or responsible for human rights abuses in Syria.  President Trump stated that “they have endured enough disasters, wars, and killing" and that his administration was willing to normalize relations with Syria's new government.” photo from the New York Times US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud to discuss ways to advance shared interests in the region and strengthen the US-Saudi relationship.  Here, the focus is on strengthening economic and defense ties, with Saudi Arabia having already pledged $600 billion in US investments over the next 4 years. Syria's new phase Once the sanctions are lifted and Syria enters into this new phase, it will be interesting to see how their new government handles these changes.  Schulz Trade Law PLLC will keep a close eye on this situation, and we look forward to providing future updates. Contact Us:   https://www.schulztradelaw.com/ Sources Used for Verification Axios : Reports Trump’s announcement and planned meeting with al-Sharaa. [ link ] Reuters : Confirms sanctions relief, Saudi investment, and Trump’s meetings. [ link ] [ link ] CNBC : Verifies Syria’s terrorism designation and Trump’s normalization efforts. [ link ] Al Jazeera : Details sanctions history, regional support, and Rubio’s diplomacy. [ link ] The Washington Post : Covers Trump’s speech, Saudi deals, and Rubio’s presence. [ link ] NPR : Confirms meetings, investment pledges, and arms deals. [ link ] CNN : Notes congressional support and Syrian reactions. [ link ] CBS News : Details Trump’s meeting with al-Sharaa and normalization goals. [ link ] The Guardian : Confirms Rubio’s presence and regional implications. [ link ]