Import Tariffs from Most Nations Paused for 90 Days

President Donald Trump announced a pause Wednesday in reciprocal tariffs for most countries for the next 90 days.

The decision sparks a resurgence in stock markets, but also contributed to confusion about the future of tariffs.

Tariffs on aluminum and steel imports remain in place, at a rate of 10%. Tariffs also remain in place for most goods from Canada and Mexico, although the rate may be changing.

However, tariffs on Chinese imports rose to 125% on all goods, and later increased to 145%. China has imposed an 84% tariff on U.S. goods.

Price increases range from single digits to 25%

Many HVAC and plumbing equipment manufacturers have already increased prices to factor in tariffs, while many  have set deadlines for increases to largely take effect by May. Many price increases are under 10%, but some are as much as 25%.

How manufacturers are affected by tariffs generally depends on how much exposure they have from offshore production and imports in supply chains.

Alex Ayers, vice president of government affairs at Heating, Air-conditioning & Refrigeration Distributors International (HARDI), said prices should remain steady during the reprieve period. HARDI surveyed members and found most businesses would prefer to impose permanent price increases rather than try to adjust surcharges as tariffs change.

Communication with distributors is crucial

Contractors should be talking with distributors about the impact on pricing, though it’s unclear whether the reduction will be long-lasting or whether tariffs will be reinstated, he said.

The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association (PHCC) said in a statement released earlier that manufacturers are highly dependent on steel and other metals, many of which come from other countries.

Contractors tell the association that despite the increases, their business has not been affected.

“There has yet to be any significant adverse impacts on business activity, though that risk is certainly prevalent should there continue to be prolonged negotiations amongst global trading partners,” PHCC said.