Tariffs & Trade: The New Rules of Engagement Recap

On Tuesday, September 30, 2025, the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia (BABCPHL) presented a sold-out panel discussion on tariffs and trade, hosted by Duane Morris LLP. Leaders from the public and private sectors convened to provide timely insights into the shifting global trade landscape and the legal and strategic implications for businesses. The discussion focused on how recent and historic trade policies—particularly those enacted during the Trump administration—continue to shape cross-border business, including relations with the UK and other key partners. The panel also explored the legal dimensions of tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and the evolving challenges surrounding their implementation.

Hope Krebs, Partner and Co-Chair of the International Practice at Duane Morris and a member of the Firm’s Tariff Mitigation Task Force, welcomed attendees. A former President of the BABCPHL, Hope acknowledged the event’s partners: the Chilean, French, German, Irish, and Japanese Chambers of Commerce, and the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia. Hope introduced Geoffrey Goodale, Partner in the Government Contracts and International Trade Group at Duane Morris and leader of the Tariff Mitigation Task Force. Based in Washington, D.C., Geoff focuses on import compliance, export controls, sanctions, and trade litigation, and serves in leadership roles across several national legal committees. Geoff moderated a dynamic discussion with a distinguished panel of experts, each offering unique perspectives on how tariffs are impacting their sectors.

Zac Taormina, Regional Operations Director – Clean Air US, Johnson Matthey, discussed how his multinational company is navigating global geopolitical uncertainty and pending EPA regulations. He outlined strategies Johnson Matthey uses to manage tariff exposure for both the company and its clients.

Amina Adjerid, First Secretary, Economic Security, British Embassy in Washington, D.C., shared insights into the US-UK trade deal, its goal to provide certainty for businesses, and how the UK government is engaging industry partners to adapt to evolving trade policy.

Matt Damone, Principal & Practice Leader, Transfer Pricing Group at Baker Tilly, explained the tax, transfer pricing, and IP implications of current trade rules. He highlighted common missteps companies make—such as modifying pricing without proper customs valuation—and shared examples of effective planning strategies.

Amy Novak, Project Director, Jacobs (People & Places Solutions), addressed the impact of tariffs on the construction industry. She detailed how shifting trade rules affect project planning and prioritization, and how her team helps clients mitigate risk amid ongoing market volatility.

In just one hour, the panel delivered concise, high-impact insights into how businesses and governments are recalibrating in the face of regulatory and geopolitical uncertainty. Speakers emphasized the increasing importance of cross-functional strategies—blending legal, financial, operational, and policy perspectives—to successfully manage global trade challenges.

An engaging Q&A followed, giving attendees the opportunity to dig deeper into sector-specific concerns and potential solutions.

Special thanks to our panelists for sharing their expertise, to Duane Morris for hosting and sponsoring the event, and to Baker Tilly and Johnson Matthey for their support. The BABCPHL is proud to bring together thought leaders from across industries to foster meaningful dialogue on today’s most pressing global business issues.

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