USTR Extends Exclusions from China Section 301 Tariffs Related to Forced Technology Transfer Investigation

November 26, 2025

WASHINGTON – Today, the Office of the United States Trade Representative announced the extension of exclusions in the Section 301 Investigation of China’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation. The 178 exclusions were previously scheduled to expire on November 29, 2025. The exclusions have been extended until November 10, 2026. 

The extension of the of the exclusions follows the historic trade and economic deal reached between President Trump and President Xi Jinping of China announced by the White House on November 1, 2025. In light of this deal, public comments received regarding the possible further extension of these exclusions, and pursuant to the direction of the President, the United States Trade Representative is extending until November 10, 2026, the 178 exclusions that were scheduled to expire on November 29, 2025. 

Information on the suspension is provided in a formal notice.

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https://ustr.gov/about/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2025/november/ustr-extends-exclusions-china-section-301-tariffs-related-forced-technology-transfer-investigation

Section 232 Import Duties on Semiconductors and their Derivative Products- Guidance - CSMS # 67400472

The purpose of this message is to provide guidance on the implementation of the January 14, 2026, Proclamation, “Adjusting Imports of Semiconductors, Semiconductor Manufacturing Equipment, and Their Derivative Products into the United States.”

BACKGROUND

The January 14, 2026, Proclamation, issued pursuant to Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862), imposes 25 percent ad valorem duties on certain imports of semiconductors and their derivative products.

ENTRY FILING GUIDANCE

This message provides guidance for importers, brokers, and filers on submitting entries to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) covering certain imported semiconductors and their derivative products from all countries, as provided in the below headings of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. eastern time on January 15, 2026.

  • 9903.79.01: Semiconductor articles meeting certain technical parameters, as provided in U.S. note 39(b) to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS, and that are classifiable in the following HTSUS provisions:

8471.50

8471.80

8473.30

The imported products must be a logic integrated circuit, or an article that contains a logic integrated circuit, that meets the technical parameters of having:

(1) a total processing performance (TPP) greater than 14,000 and less than 17,500, and a total DRAM bandwidth greater than 4,500 GB/s and less than 5,000 GB/s; or Read More→

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-4047318?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Wearable Devices with Fall Detection and Components Thereof

January 8, 2026

News Release 25-006

Inv. No(s). 337-TA-1477

Contact: Claire Huber, 202-205-1819

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Wearable Devices with Fall Detection and Components Thereof

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain wearable devices with fall detection and components thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed on behalf of UnaliWear, Inc. of Austin, Texas, on December 12, 2025. Supplements to the complaint were filed on December 31, 2025, and January 5, 2026. The complaint, as supplemented, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain wearable devices with fall detection and components thereof that infringe certain claims of the patents asserted by the complainant. The complainant requests that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Apple, Inc., Cupertino, California

  • Garmin Ltd., Schaffhausen, Switzerland

  • Garmin International, Inc., Olathe, Kansas

  • Garmin USA, Inc., Olathe, Kansas

  • Google LLC, Mountain View, California

  • Samsung Electronics America, Inc. Ridgefield Park, New Jersey

  • Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon-si, Republic of Korea

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1477), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0108_67946.htm

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Dental Burs and Kits Thereof

January 14, 2026

News Release 26-008

Inv. No(s). 337-TA-1479

Contact: Claire Huber, 202-205-1819

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Dental Burs and Kits Thereof

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain dental burs and kits thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s noticnotice of investigation of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed on behalf of Huwais IP Holding LLC of Jackson, Michigan, and Versah, LLC of Jackson, Michigan, on December 16, 2025. An amended complaint was filed on January 6, 2026. The complaint, as amended, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain dental burs and kits thereof that infringe patents and trademarks asserted by the complainants. The complainants request that the USITC issue a general exclusion order, or in the alternative a limited exclusion order, and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Pawn Move of Sialkot, Pakistan

  • Raheela Instruments of Dubai Transit, United Arab Emirates

  • Ali House of Dental of Sialkot, Pakistan

  • Dental68 of Grapevine, Texas

  • Mahfooz Instruments of Sialkot, Pakistan

  • Medsal International of Sialkot, Pakistan

  • Hamsan International d/b/a Hamsan Surgical of Sialkot, Pakistan

  • Arck Instruments UK LTD of Gillingham, United Kingdom

  • Denshine of Rancho Cucamonga, California

  • DentalBTC c/o Mediface Instruments of Sialkot, Pakistan -or- Grapevine, Texas

  • iDentalShop of Elk Grove Village, Illinois

  • Dyna International of Lahore, Pakistan

  • Merit Surgical of Cambridge, Canada

  • Skeema Dental Italia of Carpi, Italy

  • Orthodonticdental d/b/a Orthodent of WA Perth, Australia

  • New Med Instruments of Sialkot, Pakistan

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1479), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0114_67980.htm

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Wearable Devices

January 14, 2026

News Release 26-007

Inv. No(s). 337-TA-1478

Contact: Claire Huber, 202-205-1819

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Wearable Devices

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain wearable devices. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed on behalf of Samsung Electronics Co. of Seoul, South Korea, and Samsung America, Inc. of Ridgefield Park, New Jersey, on December 15, 2025. A supplement to the complaint was filed on December 31, 2025, and an amended complaint was filed on January 5, 2026.  The complaint, as supplemented and amended, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain wearable devices that infringe certain claims of the patents asserted by the complainants. The complainants request that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Ouraring, Inc., San Francisco, California

  • Ōura Health Oy, Oulu, Finland 

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1478), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0114_67978.htm

ADJUSTING IMPORTS OF SEMICONDUCTORS, SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING EQUIPMENT, AND THEIR DERIVATIVE PRODUCTS INTO THE UNITED STATES

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

1.  On December 22, 2025, the Secretary of Commerce (Secretary) transmitted to me a report on his investigation into the effects of imports of semiconductors (semiconductors or chips), semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products on the national security of the United States under section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended, 19 U.S.C. 1862 (section 232).  Based on the facts considered in that investigation, and taking into account the close relation of the economic welfare of the Nation to our national security and other relevant factors, see 19 U.S.C. 1862(d), the Secretary found and advised me of his opinion that semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products are being imported into the United States in such quantities and under such circumstances as to threaten to impair the national security of the United States.

2.  The Secretary found that the present quantities and circumstances of imports of semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products pose a threat to the national security and economy.  The United States’ capacity to produce semiconductors, certain semiconductor manufacturing equipment such as advanced lithography and etching tools, and their derivative products is insufficient to meet domestic demand.  This has led the United States to be dependent on foreign sources to meet domestic demand for semiconductors, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, and their derivative products. 

3.  The Secretary found that semiconductors are essential to the United States’ economic, industrial, and military strength.  Modern defense systems depend on high-performance semiconductors for radar and communication systems, electronic warfare and cybersecurity systems, and guidance and control systems for missiles and drones.  Furthermore, defense systems often require specialized semiconductors that can withstand extreme environments.  This reliance on semiconductors is expected only to increase.  Read More→

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Screen Protectors, Screen Protector Systems, and Components Thereo

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain screen protectors, screen protector systems, and components thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed on behalf of Superior Communications Inc. of Irwindale, California on December 3, 2025. The complaint alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain screen protectors, screen protector systems, and components thereof that infringe certain claims of the patents asserted by the complainant. The complainant requests that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Belkin International, Inc., El Segundo, CA

  • Belkin Inc., El Segundo, CA

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1474), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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USITC Makes Determinations in Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews Concerning Acetone from Belgium, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping orders on imports of acetone from Belgium, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing orders on imports of this product from Belgium, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain will remain in place. 

Chair Amy A. Karpel and Commissioner Jason E. Kearns voted in the affirmative. Commissioner David S. Johanson did not participate in the vote.

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act. See the below for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report, Acetone from Belgium, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, and Spain (Inv. Nos. 731-TA-1435-1436 and 1438-1440 (Review), USITC Publication 5694, January 2026), will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews. 

The report will be available by February 25, 2026; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website. 

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time.  Read More→

https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0107_67944.htm

USITC Institutes Section 337 Investigation of Certain Wearable Devices with Fall Detection and Components Thereof

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain wearable devices with fall detection and components thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed on behalf of UnaliWear, Inc. of Austin, Texas, on December 12, 2025. Supplements to the complaint were filed on December 31, 2025, and January 5, 2026. The complaint, as supplemented, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain wearable devices with fall detection and components thereof that infringe certain claims of the patents asserted by the complainant. The complainant requests that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Apple, Inc., Cupertino, California

  • Garmin Ltd., Schaffhausen, Switzerland

  • Garmin International, Inc., Olathe, Kansas

  • Garmin USA, Inc., Olathe, Kansas

  • Google LLC, Mountain View, California

  • Samsung Electronics America, Inc. Ridgefield Park, New Jersey

  • Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon-si, Republic of Korea

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1477), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2026/er0108_67946.htm

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) voted to institute an investigation of certain dynamic random access memory (DRAM) devices, products containing the same, and components thereof. The products at issue in the investigation are described in the Commission’s notice of investigation.

The investigation is based on a complaint filed by Netlist, Inc. of Irvine, California, on September 30, 2025. The complaint was supplemented on November 20, 2025, December 5, 2025, December 12, and December 16, 2025. The complaint, as supplemented, alleges violations of section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 in the importation into the United States and sale of certain dynamic random access memory (DRAM) devices, products containing the same, and components thereof that infringe patents asserted by the complainants. The complainant requests that the USITC issue a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. 

The USITC has identified the following respondents in this investigation:

  • Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Suwon, Republic of Korea

  • Samsung Electronics America, Inc., Plano, Texas

  • Samsung Semiconductor, Inc., Plano, Texas

  • Google LLC, Mountain View, California

  • Super Micro Computer, Inc., San Jose, California

By instituting this investigation (337-TA-1472), the USITC has not yet made any decision on the merits of the case. The USITC’s Chief Administrative Law Judge will assign the case to one of the USITC’s administrative law judges (ALJ), who will schedule and hold an evidentiary hearing. The ALJ will make an initial determination as to whether there is a violation of section 337; that initial determination is subject to review by the Commission. 

The USITC will make a final determination in the investigation at the earliest practicable time. Within 45 days after institution of the investigation, the USITC will set a target date for completing the investigation. USITC remedial orders in section 337 cases are effective when issued and become final 60 days after issuance unless disapproved for policy reasons by the U.S. Trade Representative within that 60-day period.

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2025/er1229_67906.htm

USITC Makes Determinations in Five-Year (Sunset) Reviews Concerning Lightweight Thermal Paper from China

The U.S. International Trade Commission (Commission or USITC) today determined that revoking the existing antidumping and countervailing duty orders on lightweight thermal paper from China would likely lead to continuation or recurrence of material injury within a reasonably foreseeable time. 

As a result of the Commission’s affirmative determinations, the existing orders on imports of this product from China will remain in place. 

Chair Amy A. Karpel and Commissioners David S. Johanson and Jason E. Kearns voted in the affirmative. 

Today’s action comes under the five-year (sunset) review process required by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act. See the attached page for background on these five-year (sunset) reviews.

The Commission’s public report, Lightweight Thermal Paper from China (Inv. Nos. 701-TA-451 and 731-TA-1126 (Third Review), USITC Publication 5967, January 2026), will contain the views of the Commission and information developed during the reviews.

The report will be available by January 28,2026; when available, it may be accessed on the USITC website.

 

BACKGROUND

The Uruguay Round Agreements Act requires the Department of Commerce to revoke an antidumping or countervailing duty order, or terminate a suspension agreement, after five years unless the Department of Commerce and the USITC determine that revoking the order or terminating the suspension agreement would be likely to lead to continuation or recurrence of dumping or subsidies (Commerce) and of material injury (USITC) within a reasonably foreseeable time. 

The Commission’s institution notice in five-year reviews requests that interested parties file responses with the Commission concerning the likely effects of revoking the order under review as well as other information. Generally, within 95 days from institution, the Commission will determine whether the responses it has received reflect an adequate or inadequate level of interest in a full review. If responses to the USITC’s notice of institution are adequate, or if other circumstances warrant a full review, the Commission conducts a full review, which includes a public hearing and issuance of questionnaires.

The Commission generally does not hold a hearing or conduct further investigative activities in expedited reviews. Commissioners base their injury determination in expedited reviews on the facts available, including the Commission’s prior injury and review determinations, responses received to its notice of institution, data collected by staff in connection with the reviews, and information provided by the Department of Commerce.

The five-year (sunset) reviews concerning lightweight thermal paper from China were instituted on June 2, 2025.

On September 5, 2025, the Commission determined to conduct expedited five-year reviews. Chair Amy A. Karpel and Commissioners David S. Johanson and Jason E. Kearns concluded that the domestic interested party group response was adequate and the respondent interested party group response was inadequate, and voted for expedited reviews. 

A record of the Commission’s vote to conduct expedited reviews is available on the investigations page for  Lightweight Thermal Paper from China; Inv. No. 701-TA-451 and 731-TA-1126 (Third Review). 

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https://www.usitc.gov/press_room/news_release/2025/er1223_67898.htm

Implementation of Tariff-Related Elements of the Framework for a United States-Switzerland-Liechtenstein Agreement- CSMS # 67133044 - Guidance

Executive Order (EO) 14346, “Modifying the Scope of Reciprocal Tariffs and Establishing Procedures for Implementing Trade and Security Agreements” signed on September 5, 2025, directed and authorized the Secretary of Commerce (Commerce), the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to take all necessary actions to implement and effectuate EO 14346. EO 14346 further directed Commerce and USTR to determine whether the United States must take any action to implement a final trade and security framework agreement between a foreign trading partner and the United States, including any necessary modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) through notice in the Federal Register. 

On November 14, 2025, the United States, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein announced a Framework to negotiate an Agreement on Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade (“the Framework”), and have agreed to the modification of certain tariff rates. On December 17, 2025, a Federal Register Notice (FRN), “Implementing Certain Tariff-Related Elements of the Framework for a United States–Switzerland–Liechtenstein Agreement on Fair, Balanced, and Reciprocal Trade” was posted for public inspection in the Federal Register, with a scheduled publication date of December 18, 2025. The guidance below is based on this FRN which includes modifications to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs (specifically, the “Reciprocal” tariffs imposed pursuant to Executive Order 14257 of April 2, 2025, as amended) applicable to certain imported articles that are products of Switzerland and certain imported articles that are products of Liechtenstein. Read More→

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-4005e74?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

GUIDANCE: Import Duties on Medium- and Heavy-duty Trucks, Medium- and Heavy-duty Truck Parts and Buses CSMS # 66665333

This message provides entry filing instructions for Section 232 duties on Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles (MHDVs), Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Parts (MHDVPs) and buses pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 10984 issued on October 17, 2025.

BACKGROUND
On October 17, 2025, the President issued Proclamation 10984, “Adjusting Imports of Medium- and Heavy-Duty Trucks, Medium- and Heavy-Duty Truck Parts, and Buses into the United States,” under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862), imposing between 10 to 25 percent ad valorem tariffs on imports of MHDVs and MHDVPs and buses and other vehicles, effective November 1, 2025. See Adjusting Imports of Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles, Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Parts, and Buses into the United States, 90 FR 48451 (October 22, 2025).

ENTRY FILING INSTRUCTIONS
This guidance provides instructions for importers, brokers, and filers on submitting entries to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) subject to tariffs on MHDVs and MHDVPs from all countries that are provided for in headings 9903.74.01 through 9903.74.11, respectively. This guidance also provides instructions on submitting entries for tariffs on other parts of passenger vehicles and light trucks from all countries that are provided for in headings 9903.94.07 and 9903.94.33 through 9903.94.55.

The additional duties will take effect with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on November 1, 2025.  

MEDIUM- AND HEAVY-DUTY VEHICLES (MHDVs) AND BUSES
9903.74.01: Applies to imports of MHDVs classifiable in headings 8701, 8704, 8705, 8706, and 8709 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) classifications enumerated in subdivision (b) of U.S. note 38 to subchapter III (see attached list of HTSUS classifications).

25% additional ad valorem rate of duty

9903.74.02: Applies to imports of buses and other vehicles classifiable in heading 8702 of the HTSUS enumerated in subdivision (c) of U.S. note 38 to subchapter III (see attached list of HTSUS classifications).

10% additional ad valorem rate of duty Read More→

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3f93b75?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

GUIDANCE: Duty Offset for Imports of Automobile Parts CSMS # 66684128

The purpose of this message is to provide guidance on the import adjustment offset applicable to Section 232 duties on automobile parts.

BACKGROUND

On March 26, 2025, the President issued Proclamation 10908, imposing a 25 percent ad valorem tariff on certain imports of automobile parts under Section 232, effective May 3, 2025.  See Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts Into the United States, 90 FR 14705 (April 3, 2025).

On April 29, 2025, the President issued Proclamation 10925, providing for an import adjustment offset amount applicable to Section 232 duties on imported automobile parts.  See Amendments to Adjusting Imports of Automobiles and Automobile Parts into the United States, 90 FR 18899 (May 2, 2025).  On June 13, 2025, U.S. Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration published procedures to administer the offset.  See Procedures to Administer Import Adjustment Offset Amounts for Certain Imports of Automobile Parts under Proclamation 10908, as Amended, 90 FR 25027 (June 13, 2025).

On October 17, 2025, the President issued Proclamation 10984, which, among other provisions, amended Proclamation 10908, and provides for importers to declare that other automobile parts are subject to the automobile parts tariff.  See Adjusting Imports of Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicles, Medium- and Heavy-Duty Vehicle Parts, and Buses into the United States, 90 FR 48451 (October 22, 2025).  This message includes guidance on the process by which an importer may claim an import adjustment offset on these other automobile parts.  For entry filing guidance on other elements of the October 17, 2025 Proclamation, see Cargo Systems Messaging Service Message 66665333.The functionality for the Section 232 import adjustment offset will be available in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) on November 3, 2025. Read More→  https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3f984e0?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

USTR Section 301 Determination on Nicaragua’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Relating to Labor Rights, Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, and the Rule of Law

October 20, 2025

WASHINGTON – Today, the United States Trade Representative determined under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 that Nicaragua’s acts, policies, and practices related to abuses of labor rights, abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and dismantling of the rule of law are unreasonable and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.  

As a result of the determination that Nicaragua’s acts, policies, and practices are actionable, the U.S. Trade Representative has proposed a range of responsive actions.

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) issued a report today which details evidence and findings supporting the Section 301 determination. The Report is available here.

Background

Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (Trade Act), is designed to address unfair foreign practices affecting U.S. commerce.  Section 301 may be used to respond to unjustifiable, unreasonable, or discriminatory foreign government practices that burden or restrict U.S. commerce. A Section 301(b) investigation examines whether the acts, policies, or practices are unreasonable or discriminatory and burden or restrict U.S. commerce.

On December 10, 2024, pursuant to Section 302(b)(1) of the Trade Act, after receiving the advice of the Section 301 Committee and advisory committees, the United States Trade Representative determined to initiate an investigation regarding Nicaragua’s acts, policies, and practices related to labor rights, human rights, and the rule of law. 

Pursuant to Section 304(b)(1)(A) of the Trade Act, USTR provided the public and interested persons with opportunities to present their views through a public comment process and through a public hearing. USTR received witness testimony and more than 160 comments and rebuttal comments.  The investigation also elicited testimony evidencing certain gross violations of human rights which USTR is referring to the U.S. Department of State for further investigation, action, and advocacy on those issues.

The U.S. Trade Representative today has determined that Nicaragua’s acts, policies, and practices related to labor rights, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law are unreasonable and burden or restrict U.S. commerce, and thus are actionable under Section 301(b)(1) of the Trade Act. 

The U.S. Trade Representative has also determined to propose responsive action in this investigation. As set out in the Federal Register notice, the public is invited to provide written comments by November 19, 2025, on the proposed action.

A copy of the Federal Register Notice setting out the U.S. Trade Representative’s actionability determination and proposed action is available here.

A copy of the USTR Report is available here.

A docket for comments regarding the investigation will be available here.

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https://ustr.gov/about/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2025/october/ustr-section-301-determination-nicaraguas-acts-policies-and-practices-relating-labor-rights-human

Section 301 Vessel Fees. CSMS # 66494339 - UPDATE

Pursuant to Federal Register Notice (FRN) titled “Notice of Action and Proposed Action in Section 301 Investigation of China’s Targeting the Maritime, Logistics, and Shipbuilding Sectors for Dominance” published on April 17, 2025, with modifications published on June 12, 2025. Annexes I, II, and III establish new fees for vessels owned, operated, or built in China, and for all foreign-built vehicle carrier vessels. Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) tankers, designated as vessel type 132 by the International Classification of Ships by Type (ICST) are exempt from fees in Annexes I, II, III.

Subject to the exemptions and special rules of each Annex, on or before the entry of the vessel at the first U.S. port or place from outside the Customs territory on a particular voyage, vessel operators must pay the applicable fee listed below.

The burden for determining if a vessel owes the fee is on the operator, NOT CBP.

The attached document outlines key information about these requirements.

Any questions regarding these requirements can be sent to OFO-MANIFESTBRANCH@cbp.dhs.gov.

Related CSMS: 66427144

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3f744a5?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

USTR Modifies Certain Aspects of Section 301 Ships Action and Proposes Further Modifications to the Action

WASHINGTON – Today, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced modifications to certain aspects of the responsive action to restore American shipbuilding that it took on April 17, 2025 and solicited public comments on several proposed further modifications to that action.

The modifications and proposed modifications announced today follow USTR requests for public comment made in Federal Register notices published on April 23, 2025and June 12, 2025. They reflect USTR’s consideration of public comments received in response to these notices, as well as consultations with petitioners and advisory committees.

Significant aspects of the modifications announced today include: (1) changing the basis for calculating service fees on vessel operators of foreign-built vehicle carriers and setting the fee at $46 per net ton, as of October 14, 2025; (2) eliminating, retroactive to April 17, 2025, a provision permitting the suspension of liquefied natural gas (LNG) export licenses if certain restrictions on the use of foreign-built vessels are not met; and (3) imposing tariffs of 100 percent on certain ship-to-shore cranes and cargo handling equipment.

https://ustr.gov/about/policy-offices/press-office/press-releases/2025/october/ustr-modifies-certain-aspects-section-301-ships-action-and-proposes-further-modifications-action

CSMS # 66492057 - GUIDANCE: Section 232 Import Duties on Timber, Lumber, and their Derivative Products

The purpose of this message is to provide guidance on the implementation of Proclamation 10976, “Adjusting Imports of Timber, , and Their Derivative Products into the United States,” (September 29, 2025). See 90 FR 48127.

BACKGROUND

Proclamation 10976 imposes ad valorem duties pursuant to Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962, as amended (19 U.S.C. 1862), imposing ad valorem duties ranging between 10 percent and 25 percent on imports of softwood lumber, upholstered wooden furniture products, and completed kitchen cabinets/vanities and parts. 

GUIDANCE

This guidance provides instructions for importers, brokers, and filers on submitting entries to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) of merchandise subject to tariffs imposed by Proclamation 10976. 

The additional duties are effective with respect to goods entered for consumption, or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption, on or after 12:01 a.m. Eastern Daylight Time on October 14, 2025.

Softwood Timber and Lumber

9903.76.01: Applies to imports of softwood timber and lumber products from all countries classified under the following Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) provisions:

4403.11.004403.23.014403.26.014406.91.004407.13.004403.21.014403.24.014403.99.014407.11.004407.14.004403.22.014403.25.014406.11.004407.12.004407.19.00

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3f69699?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

Guidance – Implementation of Tariff-Related Elements of the United States-European Union Framework Agreement CSMS 66336270

Executive Order (EO) 14346, “Modifying the Scope of Reciprocal Tariffs and Establishing Procedures for Implementing Trade and Security Agreements” signed on September 5, 2025, directed and authorized the Secretary of Commerce (Commerce), the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to take all necessary actions to implement and effectuate EO 14346, and further directed Commerce and USTR to determine whether the United States must take any action to implement a final trade and security framework agreement between a foreign trading partner and the United States, including any necessary modifications to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) through notice in the Federal Register. 

Based on the authorization of EO 14346, Commerce and USTR are publishing a notice in the Federal Register to modify the HTSUS as they, in consultation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC), have determined to be necessary and appropriate to effectuate the EO and the Framework on an Agreement on Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade (the EU Framework Agreement) that was announced by the United States and the European Union (EU) on August 21, 2025. On September 24, 2025, Commerce posted, “Implementing Certain Tariff-Related Elements of the U.S.-EU Framework on an Agreement on Reciprocal, Fair, and Balanced Trade” (2025-18660.pdf), with the relevant HTSUS modifications for public inspection in the Federal Register, with a scheduled publication date of September 25, 2025.  CBP’s updated guidance below is based on the HTSUS modifications announced in this notice scheduled for publication on September 25, 2025. Read More→

https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3f4360e?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2