Revised 301 Tariff Coverage and Start Date Finalized

Sep. 13, 2024
By: David G. Forgue

As we have previously reported, the United States Trade Representative has been working on an expansion of coverage of Section 301 duties for months. The final coverage range, tariffs to be applied, and implementation date had all been uncertain. However, on September 13 the USTR announced the resolution to all of these questions.

First, goods of Chinese origin that were covered by Section 301 (even if there had been an exclusion) remain covered. Exclusions related to certain types of machinery either have been granted or can be applied for. At this point, there are no other exclusions.

For entries made on or after 12:01 a.m. on September 27, 2024 additional articles will be covered starting as set forth in Annex C. For 325 tariff numbers listed the increase will be 25%. For photovoltaic cells under 8541.42.00 or 8541.43.00 50%. For a variety of motor vehicles and syringes the rate will be 100%.

In 2025 Section 301 duties are expected to be applied to certain facemasks, surgical gloves, semiconductors, parts of semiconductors, and other articles. In 2026 some medical gloves, batteries and other articles are expected to have Section 301 duties applied. Unlike the September 27, 2024 increases it is conceivable that the planned actions in 2025 and 2026 could be modified before implementation.

Do not hesitate to contact any attorney at Barnes, Richardson & Coburn, LLP if you have any questions about classification, supply chain diversification, Section 301 duties, or any other international trade issue.