U.S. Kicks Off Review of China Tech Tariffs and IP Rules
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. is starting a big review of its trade rules against China that began in 2018, focusing on tech transfer and intellectual property. Companies in the U.S. that benefit from these rules can ask to keep them in place during two special 60-day windows in 2026. This review could affect tariffs on Chinese products and impact businesses and prices.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Possible Termination on Four-Year Dates
The July 6, 2018 trade action will terminate on July 6, 2026, and the August 23, 2018 trade action will terminate on August 23, 2026, unless a representative of a domestic industry files a request to continue during the respective 60-day period before each date. If no timely request is submitted, each action will end on its four-year anniversary.
Existing 25% Duties and Trade Values
The Section 301 actions imposed additional 25 percent ad valorem duties on: (1) 818 tariff subheadings with an approximate annual trade value of $34 billion effective July 6, 2018 (List 1); and (2) 279 tariff subheadings with an approximate annual trade value of $16 billion effective August 23, 2018 (List 2). These actions have since been modified by supplemental lists, exclusions, and by the first four-year review.
60-Day Windows to Keep Tariffs
If you represent a U.S. industry that benefits from the Section 301 actions, you can request that USTR continue those trade actions during two 60-day windows: May 7, 2026 through July 5, 2026 (for the July 6, 2018 action) and June 24, 2026 through August 22, 2026 (for the August 23, 2018 action). Requests must be submitted through the USTR web portal at https://comments.ustr.gov/s/ and should identify the industry and how it benefits.
Public Comment Opportunity If Continued
If USTR receives a request to continue one or both actions, it will announce continuation and open a separate portal inviting interested persons to submit comments on the effectiveness of the action, other actions that could be taken, and the effects on the U.S. economy, including consumers.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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