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Corporate Update

Trump Orders Tougher U.S. Customs Enforcement

• By  Textile Excellence
• June 15, 2026

U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to tighten U.S. customs enforcement, signalling stricter oversight of imports into the country. While the changes will not take effect immediately, they could have important implications for textile and apparel exporters supplying the U.S. market.

Under the order, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will introduce stronger compliance requirements for importers. Companies importing into the U.S. may have to provide more detailed information on ownership, business activities and import transactions. Foreign importers will also face stricter conditions and higher bonding requirements.

For the textile and apparel sector, the biggest change is likely to be greater scrutiny of supply chains. U.S. buyers may seek more documentation from suppliers to verify the origin of products and demonstrate compliance with U.S. regulations. The order specifically calls for tougher enforcement against forced labour, undervaluation, product misclassification and transshipment aimed at avoiding duties.

CBP is also expected to increase audits, enforce penalties more aggressively and introduce a "good standing" system based on an importer's compliance record. Companies with repeated violations could lose the ability to import into the United States.

Although these measures may increase administrative costs and extend clearance procedures, they could also benefit exporters with strong compliance systems and transparent sourcing practices. As U.S. buyers look to reduce customs risks, reliable suppliers may gain a competitive advantage.

For the textile and apparel sector, the biggest change is likely to be greater scrutiny of supply chains. U.S. buyers may seek more documentation from suppliers to verify the origin of products and demonstrate compliance with U.S. regulations. The order specifically calls for tougher enforcement against forced labour, undervaluation, product misclassification and transshipment aimed at avoiding duties.