Facing another threatened round of tariffs on goods from China, importers may feel they have few options left to avoid the higher fares. Amid continued uncertainty surrounding the next moves in the U.S. and China trade dispute, we are advising our customers to be aware of their potential eligibility to claim product exclusions and/or recovery or duties.

Requests for product exclusions from duties on imports require detailed information such as manufacturer, country of origin, product availability in the U.S. or a source outside of China, and detailed supporting records. If a request for exclusion, or for a refund of Section 301 duties is met with a denial, there is a process for appeal, but it must be initiated within the allowed time frame.

CLICK HERE to see an overview presented by the NCBFAA of the considerations and process involved in filing for exclusions and recovery of duties.

WHERE THE TARIFF “WAR” STANDS: After trade talks with China fell apart, President Trump on May 10 raised tariffs to 25% on $250 billion worth of Chinese imports. (Goods with a date export from China no later than May 9 will not be affected, as long as they enter the U.S. by June 1.)

China soon retaliated by announcing plans to increase tariffs on about $60 billion worth of American goods. The U.S. has now threatened to apply a 25% tariff on the remaining two-thirds of Chinese imports, with some exceptions.

What you should do:

In this rapidly changing environment, we are advising clients to consider the following:

• Know whether your imports are affected and decide what you’re going to do about it.
• If you have a question about whether your products are affected by the tariffs, we may be able to help. We can tell you what impact the tariffs will have on your shipments, and help you file an exemption.
• Consider sourcing options in other countries besides China.

This continues to be a very fluid situation, and we are here to help you find the proper course of action.

Contact me if we can be of help and check back on our website at www.wbskinner.com for frequent updates.