Nearshore Blog | Nearshore News & Tariff Updates

Uncertainty and unpredictability have been the themes since the beginning of the year. Business owners are being forced to evaluate and adjust their supply chains, and some changes we can’t go back on. Some businesses have had to close up shop for good. Many businesses are beginning to evaluate options domestically or in free trade zones.

This week, here three themes in recent news impacting businesses:

(April 23) White House Weighs Tariff Cuts to Calm U.S.-China Trade Tensions

The Trump administration is actively considering a major reduction in its tariffs on Chinese imports, potentially slashing them by more than half. One senior White House official said the tariffs were likely to come down to between roughly 50% and 65%, with a tiered structure proposed: non-strategic imports might face a 35% tariff, while strategic goods would still see levies above 100%.

President Trump confirmed the possibility of a reduction on Tuesday, saying, “They will come down—but it won’t be zero.” The announcement caused a stir in financial markets, with investors responding positively after weeks of volatility. While no deal is finalized, the proposal represents a shift in tone after months.

This development came just days after China issued a stern warning to nations aligning too closely with U.S. trade policy. In a statement published by Chinese state media, Beijing threatened countermeasures against any country that "appeases" Washington at China’s expense.

Read more: Wall Street Journal
Read more: The Guardian

(April 23) 12 U.S. States Sue Trump Over Tariffs

Twelve U.S. states—including New York, Illinois, and Oregon—have filed a lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of Trump’s tariffs. They argue that only Congress has the authority to impose trade barriers, and that these tariffs are causing direct harm to state economies.

Notably, even Republican-led states like Nevada joined the suit, citing economic pressure from rising costs. The administration dismissed the challenge as political, but the legal battle adds another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile trade landscape.
Read more: New York Times

(April 22) Bonded Warehouses, FTZs, and the Fashion Sector’s Tactical Pivot

Record membership in Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs) and soaring demand for bonded warehouses show how quickly businesses are adapting. These zones let companies delay or avoid paying tariffs until goods enter the domestic market—making them financial pressure valves in a chaotic environment.

Fashion brands, in particular, are pivoting fast. With tariffs adding up to 155% on Chinese-made cashmere, Swedish label Lisa Yang and others are investing in U.S.-based bonded logistics hubs. These moves cut duty costs and accelerate delivery to American consumers.

Read more: CNBC
Read more: Vogue Business

More blogs

Nearshore News: Canada Drops Tech Tax, Tariff Talks Intensify, and Brands Warn of Price Hikes

As trade deadlines draw near, tensions ease in some areas and escalate in others. Canada has agreed to drop its digital services tax, clearing the way for a renewed trade deal with the U.S. by July 21. Meanwhile, U.S. trade negotiations with key global partners are heating up ahead of a July 9 tariff deadline. At the same time, the dollar is under pressure—posting its worst first-half decline in over 50 years—and major brands like Nike and Walmart are warning of price increases as tariffs ripple through supply chains.

Business

Tariffs

USA & Canada

Nearshore News: U.S.–UK Trade Deal, Tariff Engineering, and Rare Earth Shortages

President Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have finalized a partial trade deal, bringing relief to carmakers and aerospace firms. But uncertainty looms: U.S. toy companies are challenging Trump’s tariff powers at the Supreme Court, brands are reviving “tariff engineering” to dodge duties, and a rare earth shortage has already halted Ford production. The trade wa

Business

Insights

Tariffs

Europe

USA & Canada

Interview with a Jewelry Manufacturer in Rhode Island

The jewelry industry is a blend of artistry, technical precision, and innovative manufacturing. We interviewed a factory owner in Rhode Island, R&D Manufacturing. Whether you’re an emerging designer or an established brand, R&D Manufacturing provides support at every step, from design to delivery.

Manufacturing

Nearshoring

USA & Canada

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