If your company imported products from China, you may qualify for tariff exclusions or refunds. In late 2019, The United States Trade Representative (USTR) released List 4, the latest in lists of tariff exclusions that have been periodically released in several rounds since late 2018. Refunds are available for items on Lists 1, 2, and 3, and there is still time to apply for an exclusion for products under List 4A. This list includes products from China that were subject to an additional 7.5 or 15 percent tariff that went into effect September 1, 2019. However, the USTR will only be accepting requests for a limited time. To be considered for an exemption, requests must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2020.
If granted, the exclusion will refund the 15 percent duties retroactively to Sept. 1, 2019, and will be valid for one year from the Federal Register’s publication of the exclusion determination. Subsequent duties on List 4A will drop to 7.5 percent on Feb. 14, 2020.
Some of the products eligible for tariff exemptions include chemicals, textiles, automotive parts, tools, certain electric lamps, bicycles, and various other items. The full lists can be found at ustr.gov.
If you think your company is eligible for a refund or exclusion:
- Check to see if the lists include products your company has imported. If your imports are listed on List 1, List 2, or List 3, request a refund. You can still apply for a refund for these products even if a competitor submitted the application.
- If your company imported products included on List 4, apply for an exclusion by Jan. 31.
If you have more questions or would like more information about your eligibility, please contact the professionals at Rodefer Moss. Our team is well-equipped to guide you through the process of applying for an exclusion or refund.
