Webinar Recap: What New Trade Policies Mean for Ecom Companies in 2025

The global trade scene is changing fast, and ecommerce businesses will more than likely feel the effects as the incoming administration begins to amend and roll out trade policies. We asked David Carter, Head of Litigation and Regulatory Policy at Postscript, and Ned Steiner, Senior Director of International Trade at Sandler Travis & Rosenberg, to break down the latest shifts in trade policy and how brands should prepare.

Below, we’ve summarized their conversation and included timestamps for easy skimming. We highly encourage brands to join the Ecommerce Innovation Alliance and speak up on behalf of ecommerce as trade policy continues to shift under the new administration.

An overview of today’s messy regulatory environment. Ned points out that businesses should rely on actual published regulations—not gossip or social media speculation—to guide decisions.

A big part of our discussion focused on the lingering effects of the Trump Administration’s “America First” (their title) trade policies. While tariffs targeting Mexico, Canada, and China have been proposed and discussed, they haven’t actually been implemented at the time of this conversation—but that doesn’t mean they’re off the table. Businesses should keep an eye out for potential announcements, especially around April 2025.

Key points:

• Watch for updates from U.S. agencies like the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR).

• Get involved early—work with policymakers to promote trade policies that support ecommerce. If ecommerce brands don't speak up, no one will speak for them.

Ned explained Section 321 De Minimis, a regulation that lets low-value shipments (under $800) skip formal customs entry requirements. It’s a big deal for e-commerce businesses that rely on efficient cross-border shipping.

But things could get tougher soon:

• New rules might require more detailed product data, like 10-digit classification codes (HTS codes), adding costs and delays.

• Products subject to Section 301 tariffs (China-related tariffs) might no longer qualify for De Minimis, which could be a huge headache for direct-to-consumer ecommerce businesses.

Both the House and Senate are looking at cutting back on De Minimis, and the idea has bipartisan support. Ned stresses that ecommerce businesses—especially smaller ones—need to make their voices heard. Big players like Amazon are already part of the conversation, but smaller companies risk being left out.

What you can do:

• Keep an eye out for public comment periods (dates to come) and share your feedback.

• Join trade groups like the Ecommerce Innovation Alliance to have a bigger voice in shaping policy.

If you’re using distribution centers in Mexico, there’s some good news: programs like IMMEX are still viable for now. But changes to U.S. De Minimis rules could throw a wrench in cross-border supply chains down the line.

The trade environment is shifting quickly, but staying on top of developments and being proactive can make a big difference. Whether it’s tariffs, De Minimis changes, or cross-border logistics, staying engaged with policymakers and trade groups is key to protecting your business, making better decisions, and actually shaping the future of trade.

Again, we highly encourage you to connect with groups like the Ecommerce Innovation Alliance and to advocate for your business and ecommerce as a whole!