Export to the US: A guide to navigating the US trade rules

In today’s volatile global trade environment, new tariffs and sanctions have made it increasingly complex for businesses to export to the United States. Thomson Reuters reports from international trade analysts highlight growing concern among global companies about how fast-changing tariff policies are disrupting supply chains, increasing costs, and challenging long-standing trade relationships¹. For exporters in Myanmar, understanding these developments is essential.

The 2025 trade landscape has become one of heightened scrutiny, with shifting regulations and reciprocal tariff measures affecting multiple industries worldwide. For businesses involved in international shipping or sending parcels overseas, the ability to adapt quickly, maintain accurate export documents, and ensure full compliance is now a key advantage.

This guide offers practical insights to help Myanmar exporters navigate the evolving US tariff policy. From understanding new trade rules to ensuring proper documentation for customs clearance, it outlines the steps needed to keep your exports moving smoothly and compliantly across borders.

Understanding the new US trade landscape in 2025

According to The Straits Times, the US’ revised reciprocal tariff plan, announced on August 1, 2025, has introduced a 40 percent tariff on goods from Myanmar2 — the second-highest rate globally, after Syria at 41 percent. This new tariff policy is in addition to existing global baseline duties, significantly increasing total import costs for Myanmar exporters.

While the White House has not explained its rationale, the decision follows ongoing US sanctions on Myanmar’s military government. Bilateral trade between the two countries remains modest, totaling US $588.3 million in the fiscal year ending March 2025, down from US $701.9 million a year² earlier.

For Myanmar exporters, the new tariff means higher landed costs and tighter profit margins when exporting to the US. For example, a shipment of textile goods valued at US $10,000 that previously incurred a 10 percent baseline tariff (US$1,000) will now face an additional 40 percent reciprocal tariff (US$4,000), bringing total import duties to US$5,000. 

Suspension of the de minimis exemption

Another major change affecting Myanmar exporters is the suspension of the de minimis exemption for commercial shipments to the United States. To clarify the meaning of de minimis, is the value threshold under which imported goods can enter a country without incurring customs duties or taxes. Previously, shipments valued at US $800 or less qualified for duty-free entry into the US, allowing small or sample parcels to move efficiently through customs.

As of August 29, 2025, this exemption has been suspended for nearly all shipments originating from Myanmar and across the world³. This means even low-value parcels — such as sample fabrics, accessories, or small apparel orders — are now subject to duties and tariffs upon arrival in the US.

For Burmese exporters, the policy change increases both cost and administrative requirements. Businesses that rely on frequent, smaller consignments should now reassess their international shipping strategies, ensure accurate export documents and commercial invoices, and work with logistics experts to calculate total landed costs before dispatch.

Navigating US sanctions and export controls

US sanctions and export controls are a critical layer of trade compliance, especially for Myanmar exporters dealing with the US. These measures do not target all trade indiscriminately — rather, they are designed to restrict dealings involving certain individuals, entities, and sectors tied to the Myanmar military regime.

Key US agencies involved

• The Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) — part of the U.S. Treasury — administers and enforces economic and trade sanctions under U.S. national security and foreign policy objectives.
• The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), under the U.S. Department of Commerce, controls export and reexport of certain sensitive goods and technologies.

How Myanmar is affected

• Under the Burma-Related Sanctions program, OFAC has designated numerous individuals, government entities, and military-affiliated organizations in Myanmar as blocked persons (SDNs — Specially Designated Nationals).
• Transactions by U.S. persons or entities, or within U.S. jurisdiction, involving these blocked persons are generally prohibited unless authorized by a license or exemption⁴.
• A critical rule enforced by OFAC is the “50 percent rule”: if an entity is 50 percent or more owned⁴, directly or indirectly, by one or more blocked persons, then that entity is itself considered blocked.

Practical compliance steps exporters must take

• Screen all parties (suppliers, buyers, intermediaries) against U.S. sanctions lists and denied-party databases — including for ownership or control by blocked persons.
• Identify controlled goods⁵ — some products, especially in electronics, dual-use, or defense sectors, may require export licenses or be restricted under BIS rules.
• Obtain appropriate licenses or use general licenses when permitted.
• Maintain documentation and audit trails for all transactions, including internal screening reports and decisions to proceed or reject shipments.
• Monitor sanctions updates regularly, as designations and controls may change, and new entities may be added to the SDN or Entity List.

Essential strategies for compliant shipping

For Myanmar exporters, maintaining compliance under the new US trade regime means going beyond tariffs. It requires proactive preparation, transparent documentation, and strict adherence to export controls. Every shipment must demonstrate clear traceability from origin to destination to avoid delays, penalties, or accidental involvement with restricted entities.

Documentation and country of origin

Accurate export documentation is now more important than ever. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has increased scrutiny of paperwork to verify the declared Country of Origin — a key factor in determining the correct tariff rate. Any discrepancy between the stated and actual origin can result in shipment seizure or financial penalties.

Essential export documents include:

• Commercial invoice or customs invoice: Must state product details, value, origin, and HS code clearly.
• Packing list: Confirms the quantity, weight, and description of each shipment.
• Certificates or permits (if applicable): Required for restricted or dual-use goods, such as electronics or chemicals.

Exporters should ensure all documentation is consistent across every form when exporting to the US. Even small errors — such as mismatched product descriptions — can trigger compliance issues during customs inspection.

Product classification and due diligence

Proper classification of goods under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) is essential for accurate tariff assessment. Incorrect HTS codes may result in under- or over-payment of duties, or worse, regulatory violations. Businesses should regularly review and update their classifications in line with US Customs and international trade updates.

Due diligence extends beyond documentation. Myanmar exporters should:

• Vet all trading partners, including suppliers, buyers, and freight forwarders, to ensure they are not linked to sanctioned or restricted entities.
• Maintain written records of screening checks and risk assessments.
• Use reliable logistics partners experienced in managing compliance-sensitive shipments, ensuring transparency and traceability throughout the export process.

DHL Express: Your partner in compliance

In a fast-changing global trade environment, compliance is not optional — it’s a competitive advantage. DHL Express acts as more than a courier; it is a strategic partner helping Burmese exporters meet the highest international standards for shipping documentation, transparency, and regulatory accuracy.

• Customs expertise: DHL’s customs specialists help businesses stay compliant with US import rules by ensuring accurate documentation, correct HTS codes, and verified country-of-origin details. Each shipment is prepared in line with CBP requirements to prevent clearance delays.
• Network and resiliency: Backed by a network in over 220 countries and territories, DHL Express offers fast, reliable routes between Myanmar and the US. Strong trans-Pacific airfreight links ensure consistent delivery times for time-sensitive goods.
• Screening and security: All DHL shipments undergo automated sanctions screening, including checks against OFAC lists, to reduce compliance risks and keep exports moving safely within global trade regulations.

Through this combination of expert guidance, resilient logistics infrastructure, and advanced compliance technology, DHL Express empowers Myanmar businesses to continue shipping overseas with integrity and confidence — even amid evolving trade restrictions. Open a DHL Express business account today.