In recent years, the global trade pattern has been undergoing profound changes. Various countries have frequently adjusted their policies. Cross-border e-commerce sellers are facing new opportunities and challenges. This article will conduct a comprehensive analysis of policy changes, industry impacts, compliance risks and response strategies of major economies to help sellers avoid risks in a timely manner and operate steadily.
I. Core trends in global trade policy adjustments
- United States: Tariff adjustments and supply chain reviews
301 tariff increases continue: The United States continues to tighten its tariff policy on China, and some commodities (such as electronic products and textiles) may face higher tax rates.
Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): Subsidies are provided to industries such as new energy and electric vehicles, but the supply chain is required to be “de-China-ized”, which affects related cross-border sellers.
Customs strictly investigates underreporting and infringement: The U.S. Customs (CBP) strengthens intellectual property protection. Sellers need to ensure product compliance to avoid the risk of detaining goods.
- EU: Carbon tariffs and digital service taxes
CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism): Fully implemented in 2026, high-carbon emission products (such as steel and aluminum products) will have to pay additional fees to enter the EU.
DSA (Digital Services Act): Strengthen the supervision of e-commerce platforms, require transparent operations, and may face high fines for violations.
New VAT policy: Cancel the 22 euro tax-free threshold, all imported goods are subject to VAT, and the cost of low-value sellers has increased.
- Southeast Asia: Market dividends and compliance challenges
RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement): Reduce tariffs for member countries, but the rules of origin are strict, and sellers need to optimize the supply chain.
Indonesia and Thailand strengthen e-commerce supervision: require overseas sellers to register local companies, otherwise they may face the risk of closing their stores.
- Other regions
UKCA certification replaces CE in the UK: Exports to the UK must meet new standards, and some sellers may be affected by delayed certification.
Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE) VAT increase: VAT rates in some countries have increased to 15%, and pricing strategies need to be adjusted.
- Main impacts on cross-border sellers
- Rising costs
Tariff increases, carbon tax implementation, and new VAT policies have all pushed up operating costs, squeezing profit margins.
Logistics costs fluctuate (such as the Red Sea crisis affecting sea transportation), and the supply chain needs to be optimized to reduce costs.
- Increased compliance risks
Product certification: such as EU CE, US FCC, Japan PSE, etc., non-compliance may lead to delisting or fines.
Tax compliance: The reporting requirements for value-added tax (VAT) and income tax (such as US state tax) in various countries are becoming stricter.
Intellectual property: There is a high risk of counterfeit and infringing products being seized, so it is recommended to make trademark and patent layout in advance.
- Increased market access barriers
Some countries (such as India and Brazil) have increased import restrictions, and sellers need to pay attention to policy trends and adjust target markets.
III. Cross-border sellers’ lightning avoidance strategies
- Pay attention to policy trends and make arrangements in advance
Subscribe to official trade policy updates (such as WTO, official customs websites of various countries).
Join industry associations (such as eBay, Amazon seller forums) to get the latest information.
- Optimize the supply chain and reduce compliance risks
Stocking in multiple countries: Avoid dependence on a single supply chain, consider overseas warehouses or localized production.
Certification compliance: Apply for certification required for the target market in advance to avoid delays during the peak season.
- Tax compliance to avoid later retaliation
Register for a VAT number (such as the EU and the UK) and use a compliant tax agent.
Use free trade agreements (such as RCEP and USMCA) to reduce tariff costs.
- Adjust market strategies and diversify risks
Focus on emerging markets (such as the Middle East and Latin America), but assess policy stability.
Explore the DTC (direct to consumer) model to reduce platform dependence.
IV. Summary
Global trade policies have entered a high-frequency adjustment period. Cross-border sellers need to pay close attention to policy changes, strengthen compliance awareness, and optimize supply chain layout in order to develop steadily in the changing situation. It is recommended to review business strategies regularly, use professional service providers (such as logistics and tax agents) to reduce risks and achieve long-term growth.
(This article is for reference only. The specific policies are subject to official releases. It is recommended to consult professional consultants.)