Several key trade deadlines are approaching that could disrupt global commerce, as temporary pauses on US tariffs near expiration.

On July 9th, the 90-day suspension of the “Liberation Day tariffs” is set to expire. This pause has held most US tariffs at a 10% rate for all countries except China. If lifted, punitive tariffs could return – ranging from 20% on the EU to 46% on Vietnam, with Japan and South Africa facing 24% and 30% respectively.

China’s case remains the most severe. Its tariffs, previously increased to 145% during the trade war, are under a separate suspension expiring August 14.

The UK faces two fronts. While its 10% base tariff will remain, a temporary exemption from the US’s 50% steel tariff also ends July 9th. UK government hope to secure a permanent deal, though no confirmation came when Trump recently ratified parts of the broader trade agreement.

One concession that was ratified allows up to 100,000 UK-made cars into the U.S. at a reduced 10% rate – a timely relief as Britain’s car sector struggles through its weakest May in over 70 years.

With deadlines fast approaching, critical trade decisions lie ahead. The team at Unique will be monitoring developments closely.