Industry imports from China subject to US tariffs

Aggregate operations machinery and equipment are now on a list of Chinese imports that will be subject to a 25 percent U.S.-imposed tariff beginning July 6, according to the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA).

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced a list of Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) codes that classified hundreds of goods subject to the increased tariff. According to NSSGA, the list names seven entries under subheading 8474, which covers machines and equipment parts used in aggregate production, including sorting, screening, separating, washing, crushing and grinding.

NSSGA submitted comments to the USTR requesting subheading 8474 be exempted from the additional tariffs, but the request was denied. USTR is expected to publish the process for requesting an exemption in the next few weeks, according to NSSGA.

Additionally, the USTR is expected to soon open comments on additional 284 HTS codes being considered for a 25 percent U.S. tariff.

“It’s frustrating to see additional economic burdens placed on the small businesses who help create our infrastructure system,” says Ashley Amidon, senior director of legislative affairs for NSSGA. “NSSGA will continue to oppose any additional tariffs on the industry.”

The implementation of U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports comes following President Trump’s threat in March to impose tariffs on Chinese imports, which could total about $60 billion.