隐藏了30多年的关税“神器”，正在被全球企业重新激活

Core Viewpoint - Companies are increasingly utilizing the "first sale rule" to reduce tariff costs, allowing them to calculate duties based on the initial sale price rather than the final import price, thus alleviating cost pressures from tariffs [1][2]. Group 1: Implementation of the First Sale Rule - The first sale rule has been in existence since 1988 but gained renewed attention during the Trump administration due to increased tariffs [1][2]. - The rule allows retailers to pay duties based on the initial sale price, which can significantly lower costs, as demonstrated by a case where a T-shirt's initial price was $5 compared to a final retail price of $40 [1]. - Companies must provide comprehensive documentation to prove compliance with the first sale rule, including orders, contracts, and invoices [3]. Group 2: Challenges and Considerations - The application of the first sale rule can be complex, requiring companies to establish trust among parties involved and to ensure that transactions meet specific criteria [4]. - Companies need to carefully plan their supply chain structures and maintain all relevant documentation to support their claims during customs reviews [3][4]. Group 3: Industry Adoption and Benefits - The first sale rule is particularly advantageous in high-value consumer goods and luxury sectors, where profit margins are larger [5]. - Companies like Moncler have reported significant benefits to their cost structures from utilizing the first sale rule, with initial sale prices being much lower than retail prices [5]. - Other companies, such as Kuros Biosciences and Traeger, are also adjusting their business structures to take advantage of the first sale rule as a means to lower tariffs and costs [5]. Group 4: Policy Implications - While the first sale rule is legally compliant, its widespread use may undermine the Trump administration's goals of increasing tax revenue through tariffs and promoting domestic manufacturing [6].