Recent tightening of compliance reviews and tariff policies in the US and EU markets has created a new wave of challenges for Chinese exporters. Notable developments include the expansion of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) trial and the possible extension of Section 301 tariffs by the US, leaving many small and medium-sized foreign trade companies in a state of “compliance anxiety.”
CBAM Expansion Drives Up Costs for Manufacturing Exports
The EU entered the CBAM transitional phase in October 2023, initially targeting industries such as steel, aluminum, and cement. Since 2024, the scope has gradually widened to include downstream products like electricity and plastics. This means manufacturers exporting to the EU must not only calculate the carbon footprint of their products but also bear additional carbon reporting costs. Some companies report that carbon accounting adds roughly 3–5% per order, a significant burden for businesses with small-batch, multi-category operations.
Uncertain US Tariff Policy Raises Risks for Consumer Goods Exports
The US Trade Representative (USTR) is currently reviewing whether to extend Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods, covering consumer categories such as electronics, furniture, and textiles. Although no final decision has been announced, short-term tariff uncertainty has already led some American buyers to delay orders or request Chinese suppliers to share potential tariff costs. One exporter noted, “Clients are starting to ask for two price options: with and without tariffs. Negotiations are clearly taking longer.”
Emerging Markets Follow Suit with Trade Barriers
Influenced by EU and US policies, emerging markets such as Mexico and Turkey are also tightening origin checks and environmental standards for imports. Mexico has recently strengthened anti-dumping investigations into Asian imports, particularly targeting steel and ceramics. Turkey plans to roll out an EU-style “green declaration” labeling system within the year. These changes are forcing some exporters to reconfigure supply chains or shift some production capacity to Southeast Asia or Eastern Europe.
Response Strategy: Building Compliance Capability as a Core Competitiveness
In the face of rising global trade barriers, exporters must strengthen three key areas:
- Carbon Data Management – Establish a product carbon footprint tracking system and pursue internationally recognized green certifications (e.g., EPD).
- Supply Chain Diversification – Evaluate feasibility of setting up overseas warehouses or cooperative production in regions like Southeast Asia or Mexico to mitigate single-market risks.
- Tariff Planning Awareness – Make use of Rules of Origin under free trade agreements (e.g., RCEP) and optimize commodity classification and pricing strategies.
Conclusion
The international trade environment is shifting from “price competition” to “compliance competition.” Only by proactively adapting to regulatory changes can companies maintain their position amid global supply chain restructuring. Policy trends will remain a critical variable affecting export orders in the coming six months.
Post time: Jan-23-2026