Trump Authorizes Tariff Exemptions for Aligned Partners
President Donald Trump signed an executive order on September 5, 2025, introducing a new framework called “Potential Tariff Adjustments for Aligned Partners.” The order allows zero tariffs on over 45 categories of imports for countries that agree to reciprocal trade terms with the U.S.
Goods Covered Under Exemptions
The exempted items include industrial metals such as nickel and gold, pharmaceutical ingredients, chemicals, non-patented medical components, aircraft parts, graphite, neodymium magnets, LEDs, lidocaine, and several agricultural products. These exemptions aim to ease supply chains and strengthen partnerships.
Streamlined Implementation Process
The order authorizes U.S. agencies, including the Trade Representative, Commerce Department, and Customs, to approve tariff waivers without needing further presidential sign-off. Partner countries must meet specific economic and security commitments to qualify.
Items Removed from List
While expanding exemptions, the order also removed some items that were previously covered. Products like certain plastics and polysilicon no longer qualify for tariff relief, reflecting the administration’s push to protect domestic producers.
