On Thursday March 22, 2018, citing unfair trade practices and a large trade imbalance, the U.S. Administration invoked Section 301 of the 1974 Trade Act in announcing upcoming tariffs on Chinese goods. A full list of specific goods falling under the action is to be announced within 15 days followed by a 30-day commentary period.

The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) said the new tariffs result from technology theft and would be put in place on appropriate products – reflecting a previous Section 301 investigation of that theft. The USTR also issued a detailed report supporting its case for applying the tariffs. The President noted that this action would be the first of many.

The new tariffs are expected to impact approximately US$50 billion in goods imported into the U.S. annually.

China’s Ministry of Commerce quickly announced its own list of U.S. products it may target with tariffs including nuts, wine and pork valued at over US$3 billion annually.

U.S. importers and exporters are encouraged to review available information related to these actions.

Delmar International will provide new information as it becomes available.

For additional information and assistance, please contact your local Delmar International representative or our North American Advisory Services group.