Import tariff exemptions available to China-based enterprises

According to the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, Chinese companies who meet certain requirements can apply for tariff exemptions on imports. Exempt items include: wheat, soybeans, corn, and sorghum. This new policy shows China’s commitment to purchasing more U.S. produce in the near term.

It’s important to note that the exclusion process only pertains to Section 301 tariffs and does not apply to Section 232 tariffs. Applicants must be China-based enterprises and submit their applications through the Ministry of Finance (MOF) website.

The Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) has prepared a sample letter and related attachments for industry use in communicating with Chinese importer contacts about the tariff exclusions. FAS is making these available to U.S. exporters in case companies need some ideas about what to include in a letter of their own. Please note that this is a sample letter and should not be used directly. Contact Alyson Segawa, Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA), to receive this sample letter.

Exporters are reminded that China has a zero tolerance of genetically modified (GM) mix-in on non-GM shipments. SSGA is addressing this with U.S. regulatory authorities and hopes for a resolution that makes the market more fair and transparent.

Find out more about the tariff exemption announcement here.