import Tariff Exclusion US-China Trade Additional Tariff

US-Origin Product Tariff Exclusion Application Guide

Published on May 15, 2025

Since the US-China trade friction began, additional tariffs have been imposed on certain US-origin goods. But did you know that eligible goods can apply for tariff exclusion, potentially saving you a significant amount in costs over the course of a year?

What Is Tariff Exclusion

Tariff exclusion is a mechanism that, during the period when additional tariffs are in effect, allows specific goods that meet certain criteria to be exempted from the additional tariffs upon approval of an application.

Background:

  • Multiple rounds of additional tariffs resulted from US-China trade friction
  • Certain goods are difficult to replace in the Chinese market
  • The exclusion application mechanism was established to safeguard normal business operations

Application Requirements

Basic Requirements

  1. The goods must originate from the United States
  2. The goods must be on the additional tariff list
  3. The applicant must be the enterprise that actually imports the goods

Review Considerations

The Tariff Commission of the Ministry of Finance considers the following during review:

  • Whether alternative sources exist for the goods
  • The actual difficulties faced by the applicant enterprise
  • Impact on downstream industries
  • Impact on employment

Application Platform

Official Platform: Tariff Commission Exclusion Application System

Application Steps

Step 1: Register and Log In

  1. Visit https://gszx.mof.gov.cn/
  2. Register using your enterprise electronic business license
  3. Complete identity verification
  4. Log in to the system

Step 2: Query Product Information

  1. Enter the HS code in the system
  2. Check whether the product is on the additional tariff list
  3. Confirm the applicable additional tariff rate
  4. Check if other enterprises have already been granted an exclusion

Step 3: Fill in the Application Form

Key information:

  • Basic enterprise information
  • Product HS code and name
  • Detailed product description (specifications, model, intended use)
  • Whether this is a new or renewal exclusion application
  • Explanation of how the additional tariffs affect the enterprise

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Required documents:

  • Import contract or letter of intent
  • Product usage explanation
  • Market substitution analysis
  • Enterprise business status explanation
  • Other supporting materials

Step 5: Submit the Application

  1. Review all information
  2. Confirm all documents are complete
  3. Submit the application
  4. Receive an application number
  5. Track the review progress in the system

Step 6: Review Results

  • Approved: You will receive an exclusion number to use when importing
  • Rejected: You can view the rejection reason and reapply after making modifications
  • Partially approved: Exclusion granted for certain specifications/models only

Exclusion Validity Period

  • Each exclusion has a defined validity period (typically 1 year)
  • Renewal applications can be submitted before expiration
  • Monitor Ministry of Finance announcements and apply for renewal in a timely manner

Tariff Savings Calculation

Example:

  • Product value: USD 100,000
  • Original tariff: 5%
  • Additional tariff: 25%
  • Total tariff rate: 30%

After successful exclusion:

  • Reverts to original rate of 5%
  • Savings: 25% x USD 100,000 = USD 25,000

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the approval process take?

  • Generally 30-60 working days
  • Batch reviews require waiting for a unified Ministry of Finance announcement

How to use the exclusion after approval?

  • Enter the exclusion number when filing the import declaration
  • The Customs system will automatically recognize it and waive the additional tariff

Can I apply through an agent?

  • The actual importing enterprise must apply on its own
  • You may engage a professional agency to assist with document preparation

What if my application is rejected?

  • Analyze the rejection reason
  • Supplement supporting documentation
  • Resubmit the application

Application Tips

  1. Thorough substitution analysis — Clearly explain why no alternative sources can be found
  2. Specific impact description — Use data to support your case (production capacity, employment, costs)
  3. Detailed documentation — The more detailed your materials, the more likely the approval
  4. Apply early — Do not wait until the validity period is about to expire before applying for renewal
  5. Monitor policy changes — Tariff exclusion policies are adjusted periodically

The US-China trade environment is complex and ever-changing. Tariff exclusion policies provide enterprises with a buffer. Votrich continuously monitors policy developments and provides clients with the latest tariff advisory and application assistance services.