Global Trade War: Tariff Considerations for Board of Directors

Key Takeaways:   

• Have a clear understanding of entire supply chain – from where merchandise originates to where it is assembled or manufactured
• Gather and analyze transactional data to understand the financial impact of tariffs
• Review the customs triangle levers: tariff classification, country of origin, and value reported to customs
• Manage the tension between transfer pricing and customs valuation, as these both work in opposite directions
• Consider the long-term strategy of relocating manufacturing taking in factors such as: cost savings, labor rates, and potential free trade agreements
• Consider ethical sourcing and sustainability issues, such as compliance with forced labor prevention laws and environmental impact regulations
• Companies without in-house expertise to address complexity of global customs and trade issues may need to seek outside advisors with specialized knowledge to ensure informed strategic decision-making from both a legal and tax perspective

Resources:     

• BDO Talks Tariffs: Your 30 Min Monthly Briefing Webcast Series
• Customs & International Trade Services