2025 was undeniably a year of sweeping shifts in U.S. trade policy. Under the Trump Administration’s “America First” trade policy, average tariff rates climbed sharply, and new reciprocal and Section 232 tariffs were applied to a wide range of trading partners reaching levels not seen in decades. As we look toward 2026, many are asking: Have we experienced a fundamental shift in trade policy? Will tariffs remain at the heart of U.S. trade strategy for the foreseeable future? Could we face another year of tariff turmoil in 2026? In this U.S. tariff update and trade compliance review, we’ll explore what experts think may be on the horizon.