Progress on EU/US Trade Deal: Yesterday, the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee approved legislation related to the EU–US trade agreement by a strong majority. The next step in the process is an upcoming parliamentary vote, with expectations that the measure will pass. Following this, discussions among EU institutions will take place to finalize the outcome. If the process continues as anticipated, the agreement could be implemented in the coming months.
Notably, the legislation includes both “sunrise” and “sunset” provisions. Under the sunrise clause, tariff reductions will only be implemented once the EU receives “formal, clear, and precise assurances” from the United States that a 15% tariff represents the maximum rate applied to EU imports across all sectors. Additionally, the EU requires confirmation that goods containing less than 50% steel or aluminum will be subject to the 15% tariff rate, rather than 50%.
The sunset clause stipulates that the agreement will expire on the EU side in March 2028 unless it is explicitly renewed. It also allows the EU to suspend its tariff concessions if the United States imposes tariffs on any EU member state for foreign policy reasons.
Overall, this marks continued progress in advancing the agreement and is viewed as a positive development.
IEEPA Tariff refund update: There are no new developments this week as CBP continues to build out its 4 step process known as CAPE “ Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries” to work through the refund process in bulk. Importers should continue to prepare for the refund process by validating entry data and expected refund amounts, insuring you have an ACE account, and monitoring liquidation dates. We will continue to keep you advised as to the next steps.
Section 122 tariffs and Section 301 investigations: At this point, the new tariffs implemented by President Trump under Section 122 remain at 10% despite various threats to raise this amount to 15%. Subsequently, the US administration has launched a series of Section 301 investigations into trade practices that could result in additional tariffs being levied. The USTR has an open comment period and hearing process for these investigations, and affected stakeholders can submit written comments by April 15.
Fuel Prices Rise Amidst Global Transportation Disruptions: Ocean carriers and intermodal transportation providers continue to respond to escalating tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Many carriers are rerouting vessels to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, while others remain delayed within the conflict zone, contributing to mounting supply chain disruptions.
As we reported last week, carriers operating in the region have introduced Emergency Conflict Surcharges. At the same time, both ocean and domestic transportation providers—including trucking and intermodal operators—are implementing Emergency Fuel Surcharges as fuel prices continue to climb. Current increases for pre and post carriage movements range between 5% and 20% across most trade lanes, with an average impact of approximately 12%. For the Emergency Bunker Surcharge, the average is approximately $250 per TEU.
These developments are triggering a broader wave of rate increases and peak season surcharge announcements across global trade routes. We are actively monitoring these changes and working closely with our carrier partners to ensure compliance with Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) regulations while identifying mitigation strategies to minimize impact.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide timely updates as conditions evolve.
Partial Government Shutdown in USA Continues: The ongoing partial government shutdown continues in the US affecting the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). As negotiations continue, several DHS functions are operating with limited funding, affecting agencies such as TSA, FEMA, ICE, and CBP, with some employees working without pay and certain programs experiencing delays. We are continuing to monitor the shutdown and will continue to provide updates.
Save the Date for WSSA’s Annual California Event! Join WSSA for a business meeting and luncheon discussing the latest updates within the wine and spirits and logistics industries, followed by a happy hour harbor cruise showcasing the Port of Oakland. We will be sending out updates on the speakers and specific topics shortly. The event will take place May 8, 2026, with the business meeting at the Claremont Resort & Club from 12-3:30pm and the Harbor Cruise Tour from 4:30-7:30pm. RSVP to hrandolph@wssa.com to reserve your spot!
LCL Services from France, Italy, and Spain/Portugal: Bi-monthly departures continue from each of these countries for your small shipments, offering a per case rate from point of pick up to the Alba Wine and Spirits warehouse in Edison New Jersey. Shipments from other European countries can be added into the mix, with pick-ups offered in most European countries. Please let us know if you need any further information!
