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Vietnam tariffs in 2025 are reshaping global sourcing strategies. If your eCommerce business relies on Vietnamese imports—like apparel, electronics, furniture, or accessories—this guide will help you understand what’s changing, why it matters, and how to adapt your sourcing and pricing models in response to evolving tariff policy and international trade challenges.
In June 2025, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) imposed new tariffs on Vietnamese-made goods. This followed a review process that identified currency manipulation, illegal subsidies, and non-tariff barriers that distorted trade with the United States of America.
As a result, the U.S. introduced a 20% tariff rate on confirmed Vietnamese-origin goods, while goods deemed to be transshipped from third countries through Vietnam face a higher 40% tariff. These duties are in addition to existing import charges and act as reciprocal tariffs responding to what some officials called unfair trade practices. This new tariff rate will be implemented starting from August 1, 2025.
To find out more about the change in tariffs and de minimis rules this year, you can check out this article here. The de minimis rules still applies to Vietnam, which means that shipments under $800 are exempted from tariffs. The main facets of shipping that are likely to be affected by these tariff changes are freight shipments which are bulk orders that have higher value (above $800).
These tariffs are imposed at the point of entry and apply to all Vietnamese exports to the U.S. in the targeted categories.
Reminder: Tariffs are subject to change, as negotiations are ongoing. It’s important to keep checking for the latest updates and changes in the tariff landscape to make the right decisions for your business.
Vietnam had become the second-largest trading partner for U.S. importers after China, offering preferential tariffs, low labor costs, and rising manufacturing capacity. Between 2019 and 2024, U.S. imports from this Southeast Asian country surged more than 130% (U.S. Census Bureau), as businesses sought to avoid tariffs on Chinese goods under Section 301.
But:
The following chart outlines key product groups now subject to higher country-specific tariff rates under the new agreement:
This adjustment limits tariff-free access for many technology companies and fashion retailers sourcing from Vietnam.
If you're a small-to-medium-sized eCommerce business, these changes affect how you sell products, calculate import costs, and compete with other countries that still enjoy zero tariff or low-duty access.
The new tariffs increase your cost of goods sold (COGS). For example, a $50 jacket now costs $60 after the 20% tariff, reducing your profit margins significantly. However, the de minimis rule still applies to Vietnam, which means that shipments under $800 in value will not be taxed.
Customs processing may slow down as enforcement of origin verification and compliance increases. Importers disputing country of origin or product classification could face shipment holds or re-inspections.
Merchants offering free shipping or frequent discounts may need to raise prices, which risks triggering higher prices for customers and potential loss of conversions.
Vietnam now mirrors China in tariff complexity and processing time. Mexico and Canada, under USMCA, provide lower tariffs and more stable sourcing options for U.S. retailers.
Tariffs are only one part of the cost equation. The resulting trade shifts cause:
For medical devices, dairy, or energy products, countries with negotiated trade deals might be preferred.
Here are some strategies you can follow to help your business stay profitable during these uncertain times:
Ongoing public comments and debates suggest trade policies may evolve further:
Staying informed and agile is essential for any business with cross-border supply chains.
Easyship helps eCommerce sellers stay profitable in a changing trade environment. With reciprocal tariffs, customs duties, and new rules for cross-border orders, our free shipping tools and smart dashboard are built to help you ship smarter and sell globally—without the stress.
The new tariffs were negotiated in June 2025 following a USTR review citing trade imbalances and unfair practices. Currently, the baseline 10% tariff is effective, extending until the 1st of August.
Most targeted products now face a 10% tariff until the 1st of August, while transshipped goods through Vietnam are taxed at 40%.
Key impacted categories include apparel, footwear, electronics, wooden furniture, textiles, and accessories.
Transshipment typically means goods were manufactured in a third country but routed through Vietnam to mask their origin. U.S. Customs will investigate suspicious patterns or incomplete documentation.
Platforms like Easyship offer landed cost calculators, customs duty estimators, and multi-carrier comparisons to help you assess your shipping and tax exposure.
Not necessarily. It’s wise to diversify your sourcing by comparing total landed costs and logistics timelines from other countries like Mexico, India, or Indonesia.
Yes, but with caution. Consider tiered pricing, bundle deals, or highlighting added value like sustainability or faster delivery to maintain conversion rates.
Uncertain. Trade policy is dynamic—upcoming negotiations or 2026 regulatory reviews could revise tariff rules. Stay updated through USTR announcements and trade advisories.
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