U.S. and China Agree on More Favorable Tariff Treatment for $30B in Goods
Published Sept. 27, 2026
Key Points
- The U.S. and China reached consensus on recommendations for more favorable tariff treatment for $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction.
The White House released the Board of Trade working procedures, 30-FOR-30 terms of reference, and U.S. and Chinese product lists recommended for reduced tariff treatment.
- The Board of Trade launched a working group on agricultural market access barriers.
- U.S. exports covered include agricultural goods, fish and seafood, logs and wood products, cosmetics, and medical devices.
- U.S. imports covered include small appliances, toys, holiday decorations, and children’s car seats.
- China will import at least 10 million metric tons of U.S. coal in 2027 and again in 2028.
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U.S. and China reached new trade and investment arrangements during President Xi Jinping’s September 2026 state visit to Washington. According to a September 25, 2026 White House fact sheet, the U.S.-China Board of Trade, which was operationalized during the visit, reached consensus on recommendations for more favorable tariff treatment covering $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction. On September 27, the White House released additional details on the U.S.-China Board of Trade, including its working procedures, the terms of reference for the 30-FOR-30 framework, and the 30-FOR-30 lists of products recommended for reduced tariff treatment.
More Favorable Tariff Treatment for $30B in Goods
As mentioned earlier, the recommendations cover $30 billion of non-sensitive goods in each direction.
- For U.S. exports: Agricultural products, seafood, lumber and other wood products, cosmetics, and medical devices. See the China Import list for more details.
- For U.S. imports: Consumer goods including small appliances, toys, holiday decorations, and child car seats. See the U.S. Import List for more details.
The Board of Trade also launched a working group to address barriers to agricultural market access.
Other Trade and Investment Measures
- Coal: China will import at least 10 million metric tons of U.S. coal in 2027 and again in 2028.
- Investment: The two countries established the Board of Investment to discuss investment opportunities, investment-related impediments, and other commercially meaningful investment issues.
- Critical minerals: The United States and China continue working on supply chain shortages involving rare earths and other critical minerals, with the goal of returning shipment levels to appropriate levels.
Broader U.S.-China Cooperation
The U.S. and China agreed to support each other as hosts of the G20 and APEC, with both leaders intending to attend each other’s summits. They also discussed ongoing global concerns involving Russia, North Korea, and Iran.
The two countries also established the U.S.-China Super Intelligence (SI) Dialogue to exchange views on the risks and benefits of emerging technologies referred to as “super intelligence.” The next exchange is expected by November 2026, and the countries agreed to establish a bilateral communication channel for SI-related incidents.
How GHY Can Help?
GHY specializes in helping businesses navigate and reduce the impacts of tariffs through strategic solutions tailored to their needs. Our experts can audit your supply chain to identify inefficiencies, uncover cost-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with evolving trade regulations. We also employ tariff engineering techniques to optimize product classification and sourcing strategies, minimizing duty exposure and maximizing profitability.
By partnering with GHY, your business gains access to the tools and expertise needed to streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging trade environment.
Contact Us Today! Booking a Meeting, email consult@ghy.com, or call +1 (800) 667-0771.
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