Navigating Tariff Maintenance in 2025: A Key Concern for Supply Chain Leaders

Global supply networks are facing increasing difficulties as 2025 draws near, and trade obstacles and tariffs are becoming the top concerns of business executives. According to Descartes Systems Group's 2024 Supply Chain Intelligence Report, nearly half of respondents (48%) said rising tariffs and trade obstacles were their main concern. These concerns highlight the need for strong tariff maintenance plans and technology-driven solutions to handle the changing trade scenario effectively.

Why Are Tariffs a Growing Concern?

The international trade environment is becoming increasingly complex. The report highlights that tariffs and trade barriers now rank as the leading issues for businesses, regardless of company size. In addition to tariffs, supply chain disruptions (45%) and geopolitical instability (41%) are also at the forefront of leaders' minds.

Jackson Wood, director of industry strategy at Descartes, explained:

"Organizations must use compliance, technology, and strategic planning to strengthen their supply chains' resilience in the face of complicated concerns like changing trade rules and tariffs."

Potential modifications to U.S. trade laws, such as increased taxes on products from China, Canada, and Mexico, could drastically raise prices and compel businesses to rethink their sourcing plans, Wood said.

The Role of Technology in Tariff Maintenance

Effective tariff maintenance entails staying current with frequent revisions, changing sourcing tactics, and reducing expenses. To accomplish this, businesses are increasingly turning to technology-enabled solutions, which provide:

Real-Time Insights: Tools that monitor tariff updates and policy changes in real-time.

Data-Driven Decision-Making: Analytics platforms that identify alternative markets and better sources of supply.

Enhanced Compliance: Software solutions that ensure adherence to complex regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of costly penalties.

Descartes emphasized the importance of sharpening supply chain analytics practices to build resilience, citing the value of acquiring timely, high-quality competitive intelligence.

Preparing for New Tariff Policies in 2025

The incoming U.S. administration may impose further tariffs, which makes efforts to maintain existing taxes even more urgent. With intentions to carry out:

• 35% tariffs on all goods from Mexico and Canada, and
• an additional 10% on imports from China,
• businesses must act swiftly to minimize financial impacts.

Wood added that "U.S. importers may need to significantly re-engineer their sourcing strategies to mitigate potentially higher costs and maintain operational efficiency."

Strategic Approaches to Tariff Maintenance

To stay ahead, companies should focus on:

Building Flexible Sourcing Strategies: Diversify suppliers and explore alternative markets to reduce dependence on regions facing high tariffs.

Investing in Compliance Technology: Utilize platforms like those offered by Descartes to automate tariff calculations and ensure adherence to regulations.

Leveraging Analytics for Market Insights: Use data-driven tools to gain visibility into trade trends and competitive opportunities.

Strengthening Collaboration: Partner with customs brokers and logistics BPO service providers to ensure smooth transitions amid changing policies.

Conclusion

By 2025, managing tariff maintenance will be a strategic imperative rather than just a compliance task. Businesses must use technology, develop advanced sourcing strategies, and keep up with regulatory changes in light of growing trade barriers and changing regulations.

Are you prepared for the future of your supply chain? Invest in modern analytics and compliance technologies to easily adjust to trade policy and tariff maintenance. Keep your supply chain running, stay informed, and stay ahead of the game.

By working together, we can confidently and resiliently negotiate the challenges of 2025!