Legal Considerations for Doing Business in the U.S. with Pet Products in 2025

The U.S. pet product market remains one of the most lucrative in the world—but entering it in 2025 comes with a new layer of legal and regulatory complexity. Recent shifts in trade policy, tariffs, and import regulations are reshaping how international businesses must approach distribution.

If you're a pet product manufacturer, distributor, or reseller looking to grow in the United States, here’s what you need to know to stay compliant—and competitive.

📈 New Tariff Landscape in 2025

As of April 2025, the U.S. has introduced several significant tariff updates that directly affect the cost of importing pet products:

🇨🇳 China, 🇭🇰 Hong Kong & 🇲🇴 Macau

• New Tariff: 125% ad valorem tariff

• Effective Since: April 10, 2025

• Impact: Pet products sourced from these regions may become prohibitively expensive unless re-sourced or restructured.

🇪🇺 European Union (including Spain)

• New Tariff: 20% ad valorem tariff

• Impact: European suppliers must reassess their landed costs and consider tariff mitigation strategies.

🇨🇦 Canada & 🇲🇽 Mexico

• Tariff Risk: 25% if products do not qualify under USMCA origin rules.

• Tip: Ensure proper documentation to leverage USMCA benefits.

👉 These tariffs are in addition to existing customs duties, so proper HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) classification is now more critical than ever.

📦 Regulatory Requirements for Pet Product Imports

To ensure legal entry of your pet products into the U.S., your business must comply with several key regulations:

🐾 USDA-APHIS (Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service)

Products containing animal-origin ingredients (like pet treats with meat or dairy) must be:

• Pre-approved by APHIS

• Accompanied by specific permits and health certifications

• Compliant with sanitary import standards

🧾 FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration)

Pet foods and supplements must meet the same safety and labeling standards as human foods, including:

• Clear ingredient panels

• Absence of harmful substances

• Truthful health claims

📃 Customs & Border Protection (CBP)

• Correct HTS codes must be used to determine applicable duties

• Accurate commercial invoices and country of origin documentation are required

• Misclassification can cause delays or penalties

🛠️ Practical Tips for Pet Businesses Exporting to the U.S.

1. Conduct a Landed Cost Analysis
   Consider new tariffs when calculating final product costs.

2. Partner with a Customs Broker
   An experienced broker will ensure compliance and speed up your clearance process.

3. Audit Your Product Labeling
   All packaging should meet FDA labeling requirements—even for “natural” or “organic” claims.

4. Stay Flexible in Your Supply Chain
   If sourcing from highly taxed regions, explore alternative manufacturing partners or countries with lower duties.

5. Use the USMCA When Possible
   Ensure your products qualify under USMCA rules to avoid extra fees on Canadian and Mexican imports.

🐶 Final Thoughts: Compliance Is an Opportunity

While the U.S. market is more competitive and regulated than ever, it also presents massive growth potential for those who adapt. At DC Pet Distribution, we specialize in helping international pet product brands enter the U.S. market with confidence.

From logistics support to compliance consulting, we’re here to help your brand thrive.

👉 Interested in bringing your pet products into the U.S.?