Tariffs & HTS
U.S. sets 0% China semiconductor 301 tariff, rising June 2027
USTR found China's targeting of the semiconductor industry for dominance actionable under Section 301 and took tariff action on semiconductors from China, effective December 23, 2025. The initial rate is 0%; it increases on June 23, 2027 to a rate USTR will announce at least 30 days before that date. The new duty is in addition to the existing 50% Section 301 tariff on Chinese semiconductors from the forced technology transfer investigation.
What changed
The investigation began on December 23, 2024; China declined consultations, and USTR held a public hearing on March 11, 2025.
The action lists 8-digit subheadings covering high-purity silicon (2804.61.00), doped chemical elements and compounds for electronics (3818.00.00), diodes, transistors, thyristors and certain photosensitive and other semiconductor devices and parts (selected subheadings of heading 8541) and electronic integrated circuits and parts (8542.31 to 8542.90). The Annex amends note 31(f) to chapter 99 so that the rate under heading 9903.91.05 will be increased on June 23, 2027.
Covered goods remain subject to AD/CVD and other duties, and those admitted to a foreign trade zone after the effective date must take privileged foreign status. This notice did not set the 2027 rate.
What an import team should check
- Check whether your China-origin imports fall under the listed subheadings, such as those in 8541 and 8542, 2804.61.00 silicon or 3818.00.00 doped wafers.
- Confirm with your broker how entries of covered semiconductors report heading 9903.91.05 and the existing 50% Section 301 duty, and whether AD/CVD also applies.
- Set a reminder to look for the USTR Federal Register notice announcing the June 23, 2027 rate, which is to be issued at least 30 days before that date.