Washington at a stop: the shutdown sternizes
In the United States, the federal budget must be adopted annually by Congress before 1 October (early fiscal year)
If Congress fails to pass the finance laws (the 12 budget proposals) or extend the existing budget by a continuing resolution, the federal administration must cease its expenditure not authorized by law (Anti-Deficit Act 1884).
In this case, the so-called public services « non-essential » are suspended, and non-essential federal employees are placed on leave without pay, while services « essential » continue to operate temporarily (military, justice, security, hospitals...).
Since 1 October 2025The United States is in a state of shutdown as Congress neither voted the budget nor adopted a provisional resolution to extend existing appropriations.
The blockage is due to deep political disagreements between Republicans (President Trump's party) and Democrats:
- The Democrats reject the proposed budget cuts and demand that public support (especially in health) be maintained for the poorest;
- the President and Republicans blame the Democrats for wanting to defeat the Administration in order to obtain concessions (e.g. funding for immigrant care).
Despite the Republican majority in both chambers (House of Representatives and Senate), the party did not have sufficient votes to pass the Senate budget due to the rule of filibuster (a senator may extend debate indefinitely unless a closing motion has 60 votes, which exceeds the 53 Republican seats). This lack of structural compromise between the parties leaves few options for resolving the crisis.
This shutdown is more than just a budgetary blockage, as it could be a major institutional crisis If the confrontation between Congress and the President becomes lasting and structural.
If the impasse persists, it could weaken the credibility of American institutions, disrupt the functioning of the government, and affect domestic and international confidence in the federal state.
From an international trade point of view it should be noted that:
- ACH refunds and payments are suspended.
(Automated Clearinghouse is an electronic payment system that allows companies to pay duties, taxes and customs fees in the United States. This process avoids the use of cheques or manual payments, making transactions faster, more accurate and secure) - The Federal Maritime Commission (FCC) operates only with its current commissioners, as most of the department's employees were placed on leave during closure.
- Ports of entry remain open and staffed, but if the cargo requires the approval of agencies outside the CBP (US Customs Administration), delays are expected.