Directives Published August 2025
Directive Watch is your source for clear, concise explanation of Presidential directives and executive orders issued by the White House.
We break down the technical legal jargon of each directive, explaining in plain language what it means and its potential impact.
Summary
- 1st Aug 25 Increased tariffs on specific Canadian goods to 35%, implemented additional penalties for transshipment to evade duties, and established a framework for monitoring and further action regarding cross-border drug trafficking. View
- 1st Aug 25 The White House nominated Edward Forst to be Administrator of General Services. View
- 1st Aug 25 The President modified reciprocal tariff rates, adjusting duties on goods from numerous countries based on bilateral trade negotiations and national security concerns. View
Amendment to Duties to Address the Flow of Illicit Drugs Across Our Northern Border
President Trump issued an executive order increasing tariffs on certain Canadian products from 25% to 35%.
This action, justified by Canada's perceived inaction on combating the flow of illicit drugs across their shared border and its retaliatory measures, aims to pressure the Canadian government into enhanced cooperation.
The order also introduces additional penalties for transshipment to circumvent the tariffs, mandates ongoing monitoring of the situation, and outlines provisions for further action if needed.
The White House announced the nomination of Edward Forst of Florida to serve as the Administrator of General Services, replacing Robin Carnahan who resigned.
This nomination is subject to Senate confirmation and represents a key appointment to oversee a critical government agency.
Further Modifying the Reciprocal Tariff Rates
President Donald J. Trump issued an order further modifying reciprocal tariff rates, adjusting duties on goods from various countries and territories.
The action builds upon Executive Order 14257, addressing the national security and economic threats stemming from large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits.
The order modifies the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States(HTSUS), with adjustments based on progress in trade negotiations and security agreements with certain partners.
Specific tariff rates are provided in Annex I, with Annex II detailing further HTSUS modifications.
The order tasks multiple agencies with implementation, establishes penalties for transshipment to evade duties, and includes monitoring mechanisms to review the effectiveness of these actions and inform future presidential decisions.