Update On Tariffs: Vigorous Enforcement Likely Amidst Uncertainty

In the roughly four weeks since his inauguration, President Trump has announced then paused tariffs on Canada and Mexico, expanded tariffs on steel and aluminum, and suggested introducing reciprocal tariffs on the rest of the world.

This article is an effort to take stock of what has happened to date, what may be next, and how companies can try to manage the uncertain landscape, particularly given the possibility of enhanced enforcement.

President Lays Out Aggressive Approach to Trade Policy

On day one of his administration, the president issued a presidential memorandum outlining his vision on trade. The wide-ranging document, entitled "America First Trade Policy," directs government agencies to, among other things: