WTDC News: Tariff Updates and FTZ Regulatory Changes

WTDC Newsletter – May 15, 2025

This week we cover topics such as:

President’s Corner

I’d like to take a moment to share the steps WTDC is taking to ensure the best possible outcome for our clients in light of recent FTZ regulatory changes as a result of Presidential Executive Order 14257.

WTDC wants to assure you that this will not impact the movement of inventory or operational efficiency. To reinforce our commitment to compliance and transparency, WTDC has retained the services of leading trade law firm Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg. Their expertise ensures we remain in compliance with evolving federal regulations.

Additionally, we continue to be engaged in high-level discussions with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ) to stay at the forefront of evolving guidance and industry advocacy.

If you have any inquiries on how this change might relate to your logistics needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Stay healthy,

Sean Gazitua, President & CEO

Key Trade Developments

On May 12, U.S. and China agreed to a 90-day reduction in tariffs following talks in Geneva. U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods were cut from 145% to 30%, while China lowered its duties on U.S. products from 125% to 10%. However, sectors like steel, autos, and pharmaceuticals remain excluded from this temporary relief. The announcement followed Executive Order 14257, which formalized the tariff rollback and included adjustments to “de minimis” thresholds on low-value shipments. Financial markets responded positively to the de-escalation.

On May 8, the U.S. and U.K. announced an Economic Prosperity Deal reducing tariffs on key sectors. U.S. tariffs on U.K. autos will fall from 27.5% to 10% and the 25% tariff on U.K. steel and aluminum has been eliminated. In return, the U.S. gains increased access to the U.K. market, particularly in beef and ethanol exports.

WTDC will continue to track these developments. Please contact us if you have any inquiries regarding Foreign Trade Zone services.

NPR: The U.S. and China announce a deal to cut tariffs, temporarily easing trade war
Dentons: The UK-US Trade Deal

 

Miami International Airport (MIA) Future Expansions

Miami International Airport (MIA) announced a major expansion of its South Terminal to accommodate additional airline passenger traffic. The project will add six new gates, support regional and domestic flight growth, and enable the demolition of the aging Concourse G. Two proposals are under review with construction expected to span four years.

In 2024, MIA served nearly 56 million passengers—a 3.5 million increase from the previous year. The airport is also planning a Central Terminal overhaul to streamline check-in and baggage operations, ensuring a smoother travel experience for years to come.

Travel and Tour World: Miami International Airport Prepares for Significant South Terminal Expansion to Accommodate More Flights and Passengers

National Maritime Day 2025

On May 22, we recognize National Maritime Day to honor the U.S. Merchant Marine and the maritime industry’s essential contributions to trade, transportation, and security.

We honor the dedication of seafarers, port professionals, and logistics partners who keep commerce moving.

Vendor Appreciation – J&J Florida USA Painting & Corp

WTDC is proud to recognize J&J Florida USA Painting & Corp as our Vendor of the Month! For over a decade, J&J has been a valued partner delivering quality painting and maintenance services that help keep our facility in excellent condition.

A special thank you to Jader Sotelo of J&J Florida USA Painting & Corp for joining us at our April Awards Ceremony. We are grateful for J&J’s continued partnership and dedication.

His House Children’s Home 3rd Annual Water Drive

Please join us in WTDC’s 3rd Annual Water Bottle Drive benefiting His House Children’s Home to prepare for hurricane season. We are accepting one gallon water jugs and cases of mini 8 oz. water bottles until May 30, 2025.

Each year, WTDC employees, their families, and WTDC customers and vendors come together for this great cause. Thank you for your continued support!

Donations can be dropped off at WTDC or email WTDC Logistics & Business Development Manager Ginger Diez for additional ways to donate.

Thank you Ginger for organizing this initiative!

                   

Blood Drive at WTDC

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated in WTDC’s Blood Drive with OneBlood on May 6th! Each donation has the power to save up to three lives.

We are especially grateful to our volunteers whose support and energy helped make the day a success. It was a pleasure to welcome OneBlood’s Big Red Bus to WTDC, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership in the future.

This initiative holds personal significance for WTDC Chairman Ralph L. Gazitua, a lifelong blood donor. His commitment giving blood is deeply rooted in family experiences: his father passed away from leukemia, his mother from an aneurysm, and his sister from spinal cancer. Blood transfusions play a vital role in the treatment of these conditions, highlighting the life-saving importance of donation. This drive was a meaningful way to honor that legacy and share his dedication to giving back.