US agency finalizes action on China tariff hikes

By Ovunc Kutlu

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced Friday it finalized action on China tariffs following a statutory four-year review.

The tariff rate will go up to 25% on lithium-ion electrical and non-electrical vehicle batteries, critical minerals, steel and aluminum, beginning Sept. 27.

Tariff rates will increase to 100% on electric vehicles and to 50% on solar cells, according to the USTR.

Rates will be raised to no less than 50% on syringes and needles, and no less than 25% on facemasks and medical gloves.

The USTR said the proposed modifications announced in May were largely adopted, with several updates to strengthen actions to protect American businesses and workers from China’s unfair trade practices following a review of more than 1,100 comments from the public.

"Today’s finalized tariff increases will target the harmful policies and practices of the People’s Republic of China that continue to impact American workers and businesses," Ambassador Katherine Tai said in a statement. "These actions underscore the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to standing up for American workers and businesses in the face of unfair trade practices."