Tariffs - US Imposes Additional 10% Duty on China Imports

Updated: 04-FEB-2025

U.S. Imposes New Tariffs on Chinese Goods to Combat Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain

The U.S. government is implementing new tariffs on Chinese imports following President Trump’s February 1, 2025, Executive Order aimed at addressing the synthetic opioid supply chain. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have modified the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) to reflect these changes, which take effect at 12:01 a.m. EST on February 4, 2025.

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/02/05/2025-02293/implementation-of-additional-duties-on-products-of-the-peoples-republic-of-china-pursuant-to-the

2025-02-05 - Tariffs - US Imposes Additional 10% Duty on China Imports.pdf

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Key Details of the New Tariffs:

1. A 10% ad valorem tariff will be imposed on most Chinese imports, excluding certain exceptions.

2. Products from Hong Kong will also be subject to these tariffs under the Hong Kong Normalization Order (Executive Order 13936).

3. Goods already in transit before February 1, 2025, may qualify for an exemption if proper certification is provided.

4. The new duties apply in addition to existing tariffs, taxes, and fees.

5. De minimis exemptions (small shipments under $800) will no longer apply to affected Chinese products, impacting e-commerce and international mail shipments.

6. Formal entry requirements for all mail shipments from China will be enforced to prevent duty evasion.

   
   

Why These Tariffs?

The new duties stem from the national emergency declared on January 20, 2025, which expanded to include China's role in failing to curb the production and distribution of synthetic opioids and precursor chemicals. The U.S. is leveraging trade policy as a tool to pressure China into taking stronger action against illicit drug trafficking networks.

What This Means for Businesses and Consumers

Importers of Chinese goods should prepare for increased costs and compliance requirements with CBP regulations. Companies that rely on low-cost imports may see price hikes, and online retailers sourcing from China could face higher tariffs on small shipments that were previously exempt under de minimis rules.

For more details, businesses can contact CBP Trade Policy & Programs at traderemedy@cbp.dhs.gov.

Stay tuned for updates as this policy unfolds. Let us know your thoughts in the comments—how will this impact your business or industry?