On Friday, the Biden administration confirmed a series of steep tariff hikes on imports from China, marking a significant shift in trade policy.
Effective September 27, a 100% tariff will be imposed on electric vehicles (EVs), alongside a 50% tariff on solar cells, and a 25% duty on lithium-ion batteries and critical minerals.
These changes are part of a broader strategy to bolster protections for key U.S. industries against China’s state-driven industrial practices.
The U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced that these tariffs stem from a review process initiated over two years ago, largely maintaining increases proposed earlier this year. A 50% tariff on semiconductors is set to start in 2025.
Ambassador Katherine Tai stated that these actions are designed to combat the unfair practices of the Chinese government and support American workers.
The administration is also taking steps to address the “de minimis” exemption that allows low-value goods to enter the U.S. tariff-free, which critics argue undermines fair competition.
These tariffs affect various product categories and reflect the administration’s commitment to strengthening U.S. manufacturing and trade integrity in the face of global challenges.
