USITC/USTR Update China Reporting - 301/HTS

The U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) has implemented adjustments to the ten-digit statistical reporting categories in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), effective as of July 1, 2023. This action is in line with the USITC's obligation under section 484(f) of the Tariff Act of 1930, 19 U.S.C. 1484(f).

These alterations impact two exclusions reinstated in association with the Section 301 investigation into China’s Acts, Policies, and Practices Related to Technology Transfer, Intellectual Property, and Innovation, originally outlined at 87 FR 17380 (March 28, 2022).

To preserve the original product coverage of the China 301 actions, the USTR has announced required conforming amendments to the corresponding note provisions in the HTSUS.

Specifically, the Annex to this notice will adjust two existing product exclusions to coincide with the changes in the HTSUS's statistical reporting categories. Conforming amendments will be made to U.S. notes 20(ttt)(iii)(73) and 20(ttt)(iii)(74) to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS, as detailed in the Annexes of the notice published at 87 FR 17380 (March 28, 2022).

These modifications are integral to ensuring that tariff measures continue to accurately represent trade activities and policy decisions. Stakeholders are urged to familiarize themselves with these changes and assess their potential impact on import and export activities.

Further details about these adjustments can be found on the USTR's official website.  [FR Notice]