Important Updates on Section 301 Tariff Modifications Affecting Imports from China

September 13, 2024.

We wish to inform you of significant developments regarding the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) recent modifications to the Section 301 tariffs on imports from China. These changes are part of ongoing efforts to address China’s practices related to technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation.

Key Highlights:

1. Additional Tariffs and Increased Rates:
   • Effective September 27, 2024, the USTR will impose additional Section 301 duties or increase existing duties on certain products from China in strategic sectors.
   • Further tariff increases are scheduled for January 1, 2025, and January 1, 2026.
   • The specific products affected will be identified in upcoming USTR notices. These are expected to include items within technology and innovation sectors.
2. Proposed Tariff Increases on Specific Products:
   • Tungsten Products, Wafers, and Polysilicon:
     • The USTR is proposing increased tariff rates on these products.
     • A public comment process will be initiated via a separate notice, allowing stakeholders to provide input.
3. Temporary Exclusions for Machinery Used in Domestic Manufacturing:
   • A list of subheadings will be provided for products eligible for consideration under an exclusion process.
   • This applies to certain machinery critical for domestic manufacturing, potentially offering relief from additional duties.
4. Temporary Exclusions for Solar Manufacturing Equipment:
   • Certain solar manufacturing equipment is temporarily excluded from Section 301 duties.
   • Effective retroactively from January 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025.
   • Importers of these products may be eligible for duty refunds on past imports during this period.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance in understanding how these tariff modifications may affect your business. Our team is ready to help you navigate these changes and can provide personalized advice tailored to your import activities. Reach out to your Buckland representative with any questions or concerns, or email us at clientsupportca@buckland.com.

For detailed information, click here.