USTR proposed additional tariffs on Chinese products

Issue Overview

The Administration has proposed an additional $200 billion in 10% tariffs on Chinese imports. This new list of tariffs (list 3), has been added to list 1 of $34 billion in 25% tariffs that went into effect July 6, and list 2 of $16 billion of 25% tariffs under consideration.

During the public comment period for list 1, NAFEM successfully secured the removal of 40 percent of materials, parts and components used by members, as well as finished commercial foodservice commercial equipment from the original, proposed list.

Comments on list 2 and 3 are due July 28 and August 27, respectively.

NAFEM’s Position

NAFEM maintains these additional tariffs will raise the cost of inputs for many members’ products that could impact U.S. jobs, which is directly contrary to the Administration’s stated priority of increasing good-paying U.S. manufacturing jobs. Smart, economically competitive sourcing from global suppliers, including those in China, allows members to control costs, protect and even expand U.S. jobs. We will continue to aggressively participate in the public comment and hearing processes.

NAFEM joins many other organizations in calling for a solution to China’s unfair trade practices that does not include tariffs that ultimately impact hurt American workers and consumers. We also encourage members to reach out to their elected officials and USTR to explain how these tariffs affect their businesses. To support this outreach, NAFEM has developed an Advocacy Toolkit.

Issue Brief: 7.17.18