The Biden administration launched this “targeted” exemption procedure in early October, noting that it would grant them “on a case-by-case” basis when there was no alternative to products from China. Companies wishing to benefit from this could then justify their request.
Small and medium-sized American companies had deplored these customs surcharges that they must pay for not being able to source elsewhere.
“Today’s decision was made after careful consideration of public comments and in consultation with other US agencies,” the USTR said.
The Trump administration, decrying “unfair” trade practices by Beijing that have led to a colossal trade deficit, has imposed punitive tariffs on Chinese goods on the equivalent of $370 billion of US imports annually.
However, more than 2,200 waivers were granted and 549 later extended. “Most of these waivers expired on December 31, 2020,” the USTR added in the statement.
