Tariff Reduction on China-Origin Goods Linked to Synthetic Opioid Measures
The United States has reduced the additional ad valorem duty on imports from China—originally imposed under Executive Order 14195—from 20% ® 10%, effective 12:01 a.m. EST on November 10, 2025. This adjustment follows new commitments by the Government of the People's Republic of China (PRC) to curb the export and global distribution of fentanyl and precursor chemicals. The reduced 10% rate will remain in effect until 12:01 a.m. EST on November 10, 2026, unless modified or revoked earlier by Presidential action or subsequent proclamation.
Key Change
Provision: Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain Tariff (China Origin)
Previous Duty: 20% ad valorem
New Duty: 10% ad valorem
Effective Dates:
Begins: Nov 10, 2025
Ends: Nov 10, 2026
HTSUS Reference: 9903.01.24 & Note 2(u) to Chapter 99, Subchapter III
Background
Originally issued under Executive Order 14195 (Feb 2025) to combat China’s role in the fentanyl supply chain, duties were increased to 20% in EO 14228 (Mar 2025) after noncompliance. Following late-2025 negotiations, China agreed to tighten export controls on key chemicals and equipment. The U.S. response: a tariff decrease back to 10%, reflecting measurable progress.
What This Means for Importers and Brokers
China-origin goods subject to the synthetic opioid tariff will see duties cut in half. The reduction does not affect other tariff programs (e.g., Section 301, Section 232, reciprocal IEEPA duties, AD/CVD). Proper HTSUS classification and origin declaration remain essential to ensure the reduced rate is applied accurately. Importers should update their internal tariff tables accordingly.
Monitoring & Future Action
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will monitor China’s implementation of its commitments. If China fails to comply, the President may re-increase duties or modify the order as needed. All changes will be published in the Federal Register and mirrored in HTSUS updates via the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC).
Summary for Trade Professionals
Action Taken: Reduced synthetic opioid tariff on China-origin goods from 20% to 10%
Legal Authority: IEEPA (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); Trade Act of 1974 §604; EO 14195 (amended)
Enforcing Agency: Department of Homeland Security
Key HTSUS References: 9903.01.24 and Note 2(u), Chapter 99
Duration: Until further Presidential action or revocation
Practical Impact: Lower landed costs for China-origin imports previously subject to the synthetic opioid
tariff
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