CBP’s Update on Increased Tariffs for Imports from China and Hong Kong

tariffs over China and Hong Kong

The U.S. government has escalated its trade measures against China and Hong Kong, doubling additional duties on imports from these regions. As of March 4, 2025, new tariffs of 20% apply to most imports, reflecting the latest action under the Executive Order on the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain signed on March 3, 2025.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has provided updated guidance for businesses and importers navigating these tariff changes.

Key Changes: Increased Tariff Rates

  • 10% Tariff (February 4 – March 3, 2025)

HTSUS 9903.01.20 applied a 10% duty on most imports from China and Hong Kong.

  • 20% Tariff (Effective March 4, 2025, Until Further Notice)

HTSUS 9903.01.24 now doubles the duty to 20% on most imports.

This applies to all goods from China and Hong Kong, except those under specific exclusions listed below.

These additional tariffs are in addition to all other applicable duties, including anti-dumping and countervailing duties.

Exemptions: What’s Not Affected?

Some imports are exempt from the increased tariffs:

 Humanitarian Donations (HTSUS 9903.01.21)

Items like food, clothing, and medicine donated to relieve human suffering.

Informational Materials (HTSUS 9903.01.22)

Includes books, films, artwork, news wire feeds, and digital media.

Goods Already in Transit (HTSUS 9903.01.23)

Items shipped before February 1, 2025, and arriving in the U.S. before March 7, 2025, are exempt.

Important Filing and Compliance Updates

Foreign Trade Zones (FTZs):

Goods from China and Hong Kong must be admitted under “privileged foreign status” and will be subject to tariffs upon U.S. entry.

No Drawback Available:

These additional duties cannot be refunded under standard duty drawback claims.

De Minimis Exemption Still Applies:

The $800 exemption for small shipments (Section 321) remains in place for eligible items.

Correct HTS Reporting Is Mandatory:

  • Importers must follow CBP filing rules to ensure compliance, or entry summaries may be rejected.
  • Non-compliance could result in penalties, liquidated damage, and shipment delays.

Next Steps for Importers

  • Review your supply chain and pricing strategy to account for increased costs.
  • Ensure proper tariff classifications to avoid filing errors and penalties.
  • Monitor CBP updates via the Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) for further developments.

As customs brokerage is one of the core services provided by GLC, our specialized team is closely monitoring these tariff changes. We will continue tracking CBP updates and providing guidance to ensure compliance with our clients.

Stay informed—more updates to come as the situation evolves.