HS Code:
This category pertains to specific articles of Chinese origin as outlined in U.S. note 20(ddd) to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which are covered by exclusions granted by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). These exclusions typically relate to specific products or commodities that were initially subject to Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods but have been granted temporary relief due to factors such as lack of alternative sourcing, economic impact, or national interest. The exact products can vary based on the specific exclusion notices published by the USTR, often covering a range of industrial, consumer, and technological goods.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $550 billion USD (for all Section 301 affected goods, with exclusions covering a subset)
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and USTR Reports
$500 billion USD
90% of total trade under Section 301 categories of total trade
Stable with fluctuations due to tariff exclusions and geopolitical tensions
$20 billion USD
3.6% of total trade as an alternative sourcing country of total trade
Increasing due to supply chain diversification
$15 billion USD
2.7% of total trade as an alternative sourcing country of total trade
Increasing due to technology sector shifts
$10 billion USD
1.8% of total trade as an alternative sourcing country of total trade
Increasing due to nearshoring trends
$5 billion USD
0.9% of total trade as an alternative sourcing country of total trade
Increasing due to manufacturing incentives
Average Rate
25% on non-excluded goods under Section 301
Highest Rate
25% on industrial and technology products
Lowest Rate
0% on goods covered by USTR exclusions
Supply Chain Diversification
U.S. importers are increasingly sourcing from alternative countries like Vietnam and Mexico to mitigate tariff costs and reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing.
2021-2023
Technology Sector Focus
Exclusions often prioritize technology components and medical supplies, reflecting U.S. policy to protect critical industries while addressing supply chain vulnerabilities.
2020-2022
Renewal of Exclusions
Periodic reviews and extensions of exclusions by the USTR create uncertainty, influencing long-term procurement strategies of U.S. businesses.
2022-2023
The USTR announced an extension of exclusions for 352 Chinese products, including industrial components and consumer goods, to mitigate economic harm to U.S. businesses.
March 2023
Temporary relief for importers, reducing costs on specific goods and stabilizing supply chains.
USTR opened a public comment period to evaluate the effectiveness of exclusions and potential reinstatement of tariffs on previously excluded goods.
October 2022
Increased uncertainty for businesses reliant on exclusions, prompting calls for permanent tariff relief or alternative sourcing.
USTR prioritized exclusions for medical supplies and critical technology inputs as part of broader U.S. efforts to secure domestic supply chains amid global disruptions.
January 2022
Enhanced access to essential goods, supporting U.S. healthcare and technology sectors during supply shortages.