1. Limited Tariff Relief for Steel and Aluminum Producers

On April 23, the U.S. Department of Commerce issued a notice establishing procedures for certain steel and aluminum producers to request reductions in Section 232 tariffs on medium- and heavy-duty trucks (MHDVs), parts, and buses. The action follows an October 2025 proclamation that imposed tariffs but allowed for reductions (up to half the applicable rate) for qualifying imports of primary steel and aluminum from Canada and Mexico under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). To qualify, metals must be melted and poured (steel) or smelted and cast (aluminum) in North America and tied to commitments to expand U.S. production capacity. If approved, tariff rates could drop from 50% to 25%, though the relief is limited to primary metals and capped based on new production commitments.

Why it matters: While this provides targeted relief, it does not extend to many finished or downstream products widely used in events and exhibitions (e.g., booth structures, fixtures, and equipment). As a result, most event organizers and suppliers are unlikely to see meaningful cost reductions in the near term, and input cost pressures tied to metals will persist.

2. 2026 USTR Priorities

On April 22, U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on the administration’s 2026 trade agenda. Greer emphasized reciprocal trade efforts, ongoing Section 301 investigations, and the Joint Review of USMCA. Lawmakers pressed for expanded tariff exclusions, particularly for manufacturers reliant on foreign inputs. While Greer noted coordination with the Small Business Administration to connect companies with domestic suppliers and financing, he stopped short of committing to broader tariff relief for goods not produced in the United States. A planned Senate hearing was postponed.

Why it matters: The lack of commitment to expanding tariff exclusions signals continued constraints for the business and professional events sector. Organizers and suppliers should expect to continue navigating higher costs and sourcing challenges.

3. U.S. and Mexico Advance USMCA Talks

The United States is making progress with Mexico on USMCA renewal while tensions with Canada continue to escalate. On April 20, USTR Greer met with Mexico’s Economic Minister Marcelo Ebrard and President Claudia Sheinbaum to finalize plans for the first formal round of negotiations during the week of May 25, 2026. Discussions are focusing on rules of origin and critical minerals collaboration, and Mexico has requested exclusion from a separate Section 301 investigation into manufacturing overcapacity. In contrast, U.S.-Canada relations have deteriorated, with senior U.S. officials publicly criticizing Canada’s trade posture and rejecting the possibility of a simple extension of USMCA without reforms.

Why it matters: North America remains the most critical cross-border market for U.S. business and professional events, so divergence between Mexico and Canada introduces uncertainty. Stronger U.S.-Mexico alignment could support regional trade and event participation, but strained U.S.-Canada relations risk disrupting exhibitor flows, logistics, and collaboration across the border.

4. CBP Launches Tariff Refund Process for IEEPA Duties

On April 20, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) launched Phase 1 of its electronic refund system, known as the Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE), for tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). The system currently enables refunds for approximately 82% of eligible entries. The U.S. Court of International Trade has ordered CBP to provide a status update on the rollout by April 28. Meanwhile, public comments from President Donald Trump suggested that companies choosing not to pursue refunds could receive favorable consideration in the future.

Why it matters: This development kicks off the tariff refund process for suppliers, contractors, and exhibitors that paid tariffs. However, companies will need to actively pursue refunds and weigh any strategic considerations tied to administration signaling.