Ms. Tam Nguyen, CEO of GOL Solution, joins Ticker News to discuss how evolving global tariffs are challenging e-commerce—and what businesses can do to stay ahead.

Tariffs Are Changing the Game for Global E-Commerce

>>> Full interview transcript: Download

Tariffs have become a hot topic across global business headlines—and for good reason. As the U.S., EU, China, Canada, and other major economies continue to adjust their trade policies, international shipping costs and strategies are being reshaped, especially for e-commerce players.

In an exclusive interview with @TickerNews, Ms. Tam Nguyen, CEO of GOL Solution, unpacked how current trade tariffs are affecting small and medium-sized brands and shared actionable insights on how companies can respond with agility and innovation.

“Tariffs aren’t ending global trade,” said Tam, “but they are forcing businesses to become much more sophisticated in how they operate.”

The New Reality: Diversify or Get Left Behind

Today’s supply chains are under immense pressure. As Tam noted, countries like Canada are facing import tariffs ranging from 10% to 25%, while China is contending with flat 20% tariffs. Even longstanding partners like the EU are subject to 25% duties on items like steel and aluminum—and are responding in kind.

This volatility means that brands can no longer afford to rely on a single country or supplier. Supply chain diversification is now essential, and businesses must seek alternative sourcing strategies to remain competitive and resilient.

Seizing E-Commerce Opportunities with Smart Market Entry

Despite these challenges, Tam sees huge potential for businesses willing to embrace change.

“E-commerce has transformed global market entry. With the right strategy, you can test a new market without committing major resources up front,” she explained.

At GOL Solution, this approach is known as the Online-First Market Entry Framework—a method that allows brands to validate demand through digital platforms before scaling operations in a new country. This is especially empowering for small to mid-sized enterprises looking to expand internationally with minimal financial risk.

Staying Compliant in a Rapidly Evolving Trade Environment

One of the biggest risks in global expansion? Compliance.

Tam warned that many companies still treat regulatory compliance as an afterthought—something to deal with after product development or shipping has already started. But this is a costly mistake.

“In today’s climate, compliance should be integrated into the product development and market planning stages from day one,” she advised.

Over the past three months alone, more than 50 tariff-related changes have been recorded globally, making it nearly impossible for businesses to keep up without expert support. That’s where GOL Solution’s Compliance-as-a-Service offering comes in—streamlining documentation, licensing, and cross-border legal requirements so that companies can focus on growing their brand.

Why Direct-to-Consumer Asian Brands Are Thriving in Western Markets

One notable trend Tam discussed is the rise of Asian brands selling directly to consumers in Western countries. Historically, Asian manufacturers supplied Western brands behind the scenes. But now, many are choosing to create their own labels—leveraging decades of manufacturing expertise along with newfound digital marketing savvy.

“Brand ownership is now a strategic asset,” said Tam. “It offers flexibility, market control, and long-term sustainability—especially during times of political or trade uncertainty.”

Final Advice for Businesses Expanding Internationally

Tam concluded the interview with a key piece of advice: build global readiness into your foundation.

Whether you’re entering the U.S. or South Asia, staying ahead of shifting tariffs and compliance regulations can determine your success in cross-border e-commerce.