📅 2026 Update: Changes in Trade Barriers and Maritime Law

Since the original article was written, there have been significant updates in U.S. trade policies and regulations. Key changes include the suspension of the de minimis exemption and new tariffs impacting imports. The previous article offers a foundational understanding of trade barriers, which continues below.

🌊 Suspension of De Minimis Exemption

In 2025, the U.S. suspended the de minimis exemption. This means that all shipments now face applicable duties, taxes, and fees, regardless of their value. Previously, shipments valued under a certain amount could enter the U.S. without these fees.

This change can impact small businesses that relied on this exemption for low-value imports.

⚒️ Section 232 Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum

As of June 2025, the U.S. implemented a 50% ad valorem tariff on steel and aluminum imports from most countries. This tariff is part of Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. It aims to protect the domestic steel and aluminum industries but increases costs for manufacturers relying on these materials.

🚢 Cargo Preference Compliance

The Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904 requires that 100% of military cargoes be transported on U.S.-flag vessels. Shippers must now identify potential cargo moves and submit rated master bills of lading to the Maritime Administration. This ensures that military logistics support U.S. shipping interests but can complicate compliance for contractors.

📅 Reporting Deadlines for Cargo Preference

Contractors are required to submit copies of rated onboard vessel operating carrier's ocean bills of lading to the Government Contracting Officer and the Maritime Administration within 30 days after each shipment. This strict deadline emphasizes the importance of timely reporting in maintaining compliance with cargo preference laws.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 🌐 The de minimis exemption is suspended.
  • 🛠️ A 50% tariff on steel and aluminum imports is in effect.
  • 🚢 All military cargo must use U.S.-flag vessels.
  • 📅 Contractors have 30 days to report cargo shipments.
  • 📞 The Maritime Administration offers assistance for compliance.

💡 Tips for Understanding Trade Barriers

Review the details of your own situation with your attorney. It's important to understand how these changes might affect you.

📊 Understand Tariff Impacts

Familiarize yourself with the 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum. If you import these materials, calculate how these tariffs affect your overall costs. This knowledge can help you plan your budget and pricing strategies.

📃 Meet Reporting Deadlines

Ensure timely submission of all necessary paperwork. Remember that you have 30 days to report your cargo shipments. Missing this deadline could result in penalties or issues with future contracts.

🚢 Know Cargo Preference Laws

If you are involved in federal contracts, be aware of Cargo Preference laws. These laws may require a specific percentage of cargo to be transported on U.S.-flag vessels. Non-compliance can lead to contract disputes.

📞 Seek Assistance

If you have questions regarding cargo preference compliance, contact the Maritime Administration. They provide support and guidance for shippers navigating these regulations.

🌍 Stay Informed of Changes

Keep updated with current trade policies and changes in regulations. Trade laws can shift quickly, impacting how you conduct business and manage shipping logistics.

🏆 Free Options Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

In this area, no national paid services met the review threshold, so this section lists free government and nonprofit resources available to assist with trade barriers and maritime law.

🥇 1. Maritime Administration

The Maritime Administration offers guidance on cargo preference compliance. Their Office of Cargo and Commercial Sealift helps shippers understand and meet federal requirements. This resource is beneficial for contractors involved in federal cargo transportation.

🥈 2. U.S. Trade Representative

The U.S. Trade Representative provides information on trade policies, including current tariffs and trade actions. This office addresses issues related to international trade and can help businesses understand their rights and responsibilities.

🥉 3. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

UNCTAD offers research and technical advice on international maritime and transport law. They assist countries in developing effective trade policies and can provide valuable insights for businesses engaged in maritime trade.

4️⃣ Government Contracting Officer

Your Government Contracting Officer can provide specific guidance on federal contract requirements. They are a key contact for understanding compliance with cargo preference laws and reporting requirements.

🔎 What to Check Before Paying for Help

  • 📜 Verify the credentials of any organization you consider.
  • 🏛️ Check if they are a government or nonprofit resource.
  • 🔍 Look for user reviews or testimonials if available.
  • 📞 Confirm their expertise in trade and maritime law.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❔ What are trade barriers?

Trade barriers are restrictions that countries impose on imports and exports. They can include tariffs, quotas, and regulations that affect international trade.

📦 How do tariffs affect import costs?

Tariffs increase the cost of imported goods. For example, the recent 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum raise prices for businesses that use these materials.

🚚 What is the de minimis exemption?

The de minimis exemption previously allowed low-value shipments to enter the U.S. without duties or taxes. This exemption is currently suspended.

🛳️ Who must comply with cargo preference laws?

Cargo preference laws apply to any federal department, agency, contractor, or subcontractor involved in programs requiring ocean transportation of cargoes.

📅 What happens if I miss a cargo reporting deadline?

Missing a reporting deadline can lead to penalties and complications with future contracts. Timely reporting is essential to maintain compliance.

🌐 Where can I find more information on maritime law?

You can find more information on maritime law by consulting the Maritime Administration or the U.S. Trade Representative. Both offer resources for understanding current regulations.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Trade Barriers

Recent court rulings have addressed issues surrounding trade barriers and compliance with maritime laws. These cases highlight the importance of understanding both federal regulations and international trade agreements.

For more recent rulings, check out more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






A trade barrier refers to any particular type of impedance or restriction that is placed on international trade activity. Typically speaking, trade barriers will usually be in the form of administrative implementations and legislation which will restrict a particular aspect of international trade. 



This can range from the type of merchandise or service that is being traded to even certain countries that are not allowed to trade with others. 

Definition of Trade Barrier



Trade barriers will come in variety of forms, which include licenses, import quotas, tariffs, taxes, and embargo. However, most trader barriers will all usually result in the same situation, where the prices on a particular trade product are raised beyond what the product is actually worth.



 This will result in people paying more for that particular product once it reaches the market. A trade barrier of this sort can be done for a variety of reasons, one being a country seeking to stimulate its own domestic economy by promoting exportation and limiting imports. 

Generally speaking, most experts would agree that a trade barrier of any kind will usually have a negative impact on both international trade and the overall economy. Trade barriers may often prove not only to hurt trade on the international level, but also the industry on which a particular trade barrier is placed. 



An example could be agricultural products that are taxed. A tax barrier such as taxation of food imports can lead to overproduction and lowering prices for such products. This would have a detrimental impact on farmers producing such goods.