Global CFS

The Impact of Regulatory Changes on International Trade and E-Commerce

July 1, 2025
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International trade and e-commerce evolve fast, but regulatory changes often move even faster. From customs compliance to changing duty thresholds, shifting trade policy affects everything from how cargo is classified to how quickly it clears. At Global CFS, we stay current on the latest updates so our customers don’t have to stress over the fine print.

Key Regulatory Changes Impacting Trade

Recent global and U.S. policy shifts influence cargo flows and fulfillment strategies. Key examples include:

  • De Minimis ended the $800 duty-free exemption for Chinese goods, imposing a 120% levy or $100 flat fee on shipments under $800.
  • Tariff Modifications, like those recently covered in trade litigation and appeals, are adding layers of unpredictability. This means a growing need for tariff classification expertise and landed cost modeling for importers.
  • Forced Labor Compliance, now more aggressively enforced under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), can halt shipments without warning if documentation isn’t airtight.
  • Customs Data Requirements, such as increased scrutiny around origin declarations, HTS codes, and consignee visibility, require shippers to adopt a more proactive stance on documentation and tracking.

“Regulatory change isn’t a curveball—it’s the game. The companies that thrive are the ones that treat compliance as a strategic advantage, not an afterthought. At Global CFS, we don’t just react to rules; we help our partners anticipate, adapt, and accelerate.”
Steve Panzarella, President, Global CFS 

What E-Commerce Operators Need to Do Now

To stay competitive and compliant, online sellers and cross-border shippers should:

  • Work with a customs broker who understands the latest rules and offers hands-on guidance.
  • Invest in supply chain visibility tools and integrate smarter data systems.
  • Evaluate fulfillment models—like Section 321 strategies—that may be impacted by regulation soon.
  • Rely on bonded facilities or CFS (container freight stations) with regulatory experience to mitigate the risk of port holds and customs exams.

Global CFS: Compliance Isn’t Optional—It’s Advantageous

At Global CFS, our team doesn’t just process freight—we proactively protect it. We help our clients understand evolving rules and build logistics strategies that stay nimble even as policies shift. With locations in the Midwest and West Coast and decades of experience in bonded warehousing, e-commerce support, and trade compliance, we help importers and retailers move smarter, not riskier.

Want confidence in your cargo clearance? Contact Global CFS today and let’s build your compliant, cross-border advantage.