U.S. businesses take advantage of bonded warehouses to defer import tax payments in the context of rising tariffs under President Trump's administration.
The bonded warehouse managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection allows for the delay of tax payments until goods are ready to enter the domestic market, optimizing the supply chain and maintaining cash flow.
MAIN CONTENT
Bonded warehouses help defer the payment of import taxes until the goods leave the warehouse and are officially imported.
Businesses take advantage of bonded warehouses to flexibly monitor tax fluctuations and maintain liquidity.
High storage costs and the risk of increased taxes mean that not every company opts to use them.
What is a bonded warehouse and how does it operate?
International trade expert Tim Hruby explains that a bonded warehouse is a customs area where goods are imported but not subject to import taxes until they leave the warehouse and are officially imported.
This is similar to an airport area where you collect luggage but have not yet completed customs declarations. Goods can be transported by ship, airplane, and then kept in a bonded warehouse to defer tax obligations, although storage fees still apply.
There are over 1,700 bonded warehouses across the United States, most located near major ports and airports to facilitate transportation, ensuring safety for businesses optimizing their supply chains.
How do U.S. businesses use bonded warehouses in the context of rising tariffs?
Deborah Elms, director of trade policy at the Hinrich Foundation, confirms that a bonded warehouse is not a completely tax-free zone, but it helps defer tax payments until goods leave the warehouse.
Businesses can allocate time and tax costs more reasonably, monitor tax policy changes before deciding to import or keep goods in storage. If taxes increase, goods can be stored for up to 5 years, helping businesses maintain cash flow and reduce risk.
Using a bonded warehouse "allows companies to optimize their supply chains, extend cash holding times, and flexibly adjust to changing tax policies."
Deborah Elms, Director of Trade Policy, Hinrich Foundation, 2025
Real-life examples of bonded warehouses
A company importing glass from Germany can keep goods in a bonded warehouse near the port and only process imports when taxes decrease or are waived. This helps them avoid immediate tax payments and use their capital more effectively.
What are the risks and costs of using a bonded warehouse?
Deborah Elms notes that delaying tax payments is a gamble, as import taxes may rise further, increasing overall costs beyond expectations.
Bonded warehouses are subject to strict management by Customs, so storage fees and monitoring costs are often high, and many warehouses have limited capacity not suitable for the large volumes of some businesses.
"High costs and strict regulations mean that not all U.S. businesses choose to use bonded warehouses."
Deborah Elms, Director of Trade Policy, Hinrich Foundation, 2025
Impact of new import tax policies from the U.S. government
The Trump administration imposed a 30% tax on imports from Mexico and 27 EU countries starting August 1, along with high tax rates on Canada, Brazil, and many other countries.
Data from the U.S. Department of the Treasury shows that import taxes generated over $100 billion in 2025, with June's revenue reaching $27 billion, an increase of 301% compared to the same period in 2024.
Increased tax costs put significant pressure on businesses regarding pricing, potentially leading to higher final prices for consumers.
Frequently asked questions
What benefits do bonded warehouses provide to businesses?
Bonded warehouses defer import taxes until the goods leave the warehouse, helping to optimize cash flow management and adapt to tax fluctuations.What are the risks of keeping goods in a bonded warehouse?
The main risk is that taxes may increase, leading to higher costs and storage fees that are not insignificant.What is the maximum storage time?
Goods can be stored in a bonded warehouse for up to 5 years, depending on the type of goods and customs regulations.Is the bonded warehouse completely tax-free?
No, taxes are only deferred until the goods leave the official import warehouse.Why don't many U.S. businesses use bonded warehouses?
High costs and strict regulations are significant barriers that prevent many companies from using this service.
Source: https://tintucbitcoin.com/tariffs-tang-cong-ty-my-tranh-phi/
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