Washington, D.C. — The United States is set to roll out new tariff exemptions starting Monday, targeting dozens of imported goods from countries that have reached reciprocal trade agreements with Washington.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday that removes import duties on more than 45 categories of items — including metals, pharmaceutical ingredients, and industrial chemicals — for partners that have committed to reducing their own trade barriers under the administration’s “reciprocal tariff” strategy.
The order marks another major step in Trump’s effort to reshape global commerce, following months of tariff hikes meant to pressure trade partners into renegotiating deals and narrowing the U.S. trade deficit.
A senior White House official said the new rules will make it easier for the U.S. Trade Representative, the Commerce Department, and Customs to waive tariffs for countries with compliant trade frameworks, eliminating the need for further presidential action on each case.
What’s Covered
The duty-free list includes nickel — vital for stainless steel and electric vehicle batteries — natural graphite, neodymium magnets, LEDs, and several pharmaceutical inputs like lidocaine and diagnostic reagents. Certain agricultural goods, aircraft components, and non-patented drug substances also qualify.
Gold imports, from powders to bullion, are included as well, though countries without trade deals — such as Switzerland — will continue to face steep duties.
Pakistan’s Position
Pakistan signed a reciprocal trade deal with the U.S. in July, securing a reduction in tariffs on its exports from 29% to 19% and opening the door to joint energy projects, including oil exploration. However, it remains uncertain whether Islamabad will benefit from the latest exemptions, as eligibility will depend on the scale of its commitments and whether they align with U.S. national interests.
Timing
The tariff relief takes effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT (0401 GMT) Monday.
