Building new capabilities: Tariff strategy is as important as tax strategy

A critical shift is underway. Tariffs are catching up with taxes in strategic importance, becoming a major line item, planning lever, and board-level concern. It’s time for deliberate team-building to address the pressures.

Protect your margin from millions in tariff increases

The University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School estimates that recent tariff increases represent federal revenue equivalent to raising the corporate income tax by fifteen points from the 2025 rate of 21 percent to 36 percent. 

For some companies, this means an eight- or nine-figure increase in tariffs. Leaders who directly address costs with expert strategy will protect margin. Those who don’t will quickly lose ground.

Reallocate headcount to meet new demands

In response to these rising demands, some customs brokers are stepping into a new class of advisory roles that parallel or surpass the significance of tax advisors. 

Their objective is to minimize tariff obligations and related costs. They’ll help executives model financial exposure, adapt global sourcing, and align cross-functional teams. Some companies will shuffle headcount, reallocating investments in tax and finance teams to focus on customs advisory partnerships. 

Integrate guidance at the organizational level

Look for dedicated customs experts who can run complex scenarios using clearly defensible data to stay compliant. The right partners have ongoing exposure to actionable signals, regulatory changes, and competitive trends. At an organizational level, they collaborate across divisions to optimize supply chains. 

With this level of guidance, companies can develop a full view of how to protect profitability. 

Ready to explore more? At Tom Gould Customs Consulting, we help you design strategies that limit tariff exposure while maintaining compliance. Email Tom to start.