Hampl Urges USTR to Remove Products from China Tariff List

Hampl expressed concern about consequences proposed tariffs are likely to have on sectors vital to the U.S. economy and jobs
The Administration is also considering increasing tariffs to 25 percent.

 

With a new set of proposed tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese imports, USCIB has been actively advocating on the effect these tariffs will have on the competitiveness of U.S. companies. USCIB Senior Director for Investment, Trade and Financial Services Eva Hampl provided testimony to the 301 Committee chaired by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on August 20, expressing concern about the potential unintended consequences these proposed tariffs of 10 percent are likely to have, affecting many sectors vital to the U.S. economy and jobs. The Administration is also considering increasing tariffs to 25 percent.

“If the USTR follows through on the President’s request to increase the level of the proposed tariffs to 25 percent on this broad list of products, the impact to U.S. competitiveness will be severe,” warned Hampl in her testimony. “USCIB strongly urges the Administration to consider the significant negative consequences to U.S. companies and American jobs before taking further action.”

Products that USCIB requested to be removed from the list of goods affected include parts in U.S.-made wind turbines, smart technology, goods using Bluetooth technology, standalone desktop computers, bicycles, patio furniture, electric lamps, travel goods, handbags, and many others. USCIB will submit written comments to USTR with further details on all the products that should be excluded.

“Many of the goods included in this new list are innovative products where the U.S. is an industry leader,” added Hampl. “Particularly for goods that are at the cutting edge of innovation and the future global economy, it is imperative for U.S. companies to remain highly competitive and innovative. Sweeping non-discriminatory tariffs will be very damaging, particularly if they are raised to 25 percent.”

With yet a new set of tariffs on China going into effect on August 23 on $16 billion worth of Chinese imports, USCIB has also been actively advocating that the U.S. Trade Representative’s (USTR) Section 301 exclusion process will remedy some of the potential negative consequences.

 

Staff Contact:   Alice Slayton Clark

Senior VP, Trade, Investment, and Digital Policy
Tel: 202.682.0051

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