The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced on July 3rd that two actions four years ago to impose tariffs on Chinese goods imported to the United States based on the results of the so-called "301 investigation" will end on July 6th and August 23rd of this year, respectively. Starting today, the office will initiate the statutory review process for relevant actions.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) issued a statement on the same day, stating that it will inform domestic industry representatives in the United States who have benefited from the increased tariffs on China that the relevant tariffs may be lifted. Industry representatives can apply to the office to maintain the increased tariffs before July 5th and August 22nd, respectively. The office will review the relevant tariffs based on the application, and maintain these tariffs during the review period.

 

 

The investigation is divided into two stages. The first stage is submitted and open for review by industry representatives of American stakeholders, requesting the continuation of the corresponding modified trade actions. The second stage of review will be announced in one or more subsequent notices and will provide an opportunity for all relevant parties (all businesses and individuals) to express public opinions.

STR must receive a request for industry representative review within the 60 day window period prior to the fourth anniversary of the two tariff increase actions:


1、 $34 billion List 1:


The $34 billion "List 1" list of tariffs imposed on Chinese products (with a tax rate of 25% since July 6, 2018) has undergone 8 rounds of exclusion. Request for review between May 7, 2022 and July 5, 2022.

 

 

 

2、 $16 billion List 2:


The "List 2" list of 16 billion US dollars in tariffs on Chinese products (with a tax rate of 25% since August 23, 2018) has undergone three rounds of exclusion. Request for review between June 24, 2022 and August 22, 2022.

 

 

US Trade Representative Dai Qi stated at an event on the 2nd that the US government will take all policy measures to curb soaring prices, implying that reducing tariffs on Chinese goods imported to the US will be considered.


The so-called "301 investigation" originated from Section 301 of the United States Trade Act of 1974. This provision authorizes the United States Trade Representative to initiate investigations into "unreasonable or unfair trade practices" of other countries, and may recommend unilateral sanctions to the President of the United States after the investigation is completed.