On September 25, President Donald Trump took to his social media platform Truth Social to announce a new wave of tariffs under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, targeting furniture, pharmaceuticals and trucks. These measures, set to take effect on October 1, 2025, are framed as necessary for national security and are being implemented to revitalize domestic manufacturing, and seem to follow from the previously announced initiation of Section 232 investigations covering such products.
Certain pharmaceuticals are expected to face a 100% tariff applying to drugs manufactured under patent unless the manufacturer is actively building a production facility in the United States. The President’s post suggests that actively building means breaking ground or being under construction. Generic drugs are reportedly to be excluded. Moreover, countries which have negotiated agreements that address these measures are expected to face lower rates. For example, the European Union should only be subject to a 15% cap on tariffs for its pharmaceutical exports.
According to the President’s post, kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities and related products will face a 50% tariff, while upholstered furniture will be subject to a 30% tariff. The new tariffs are reported to be justified by fact that the US market has been flooded with low-cost imports, particularly from Asia, undermining domestic producers.
Heavy trucks are also targeted by the new tariffs. Imports of trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds will be subject to a 25% tariff. The announcement claims this move will protect US manufacturers like Peterbilt, Kenworth, and Mack Trucks from unfair foreign competition.
Importers and businesses will need prepare for the imposition of these duties on October 1, 2025. Further instructions by US Customs and Border Protection as to the scope of these Section 232 duties are expected to be issued in the near future.
