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Section 301 Tariff Exclusions Further Extended Through November 29, 2025

Trade Update • Sept. 1, 2025

For background on the latest changes, see our previous update.

Key Points

  • The USTR has extended 164 product exclusions and 14 manufacturing equipment exclusions from Section 301 tariffs on imports from China through November 29, 2025.

  • These exclusions were previously extended through August 31, 2025.

  • The new extension covers goods entered or withdrawn for consumption from September 1 through November 29, 2025.

  • Importers should use HTSUS codes 9903.88.69 or 9903.88.70 to claim these exclusions.

  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has updated its systems and issued guidance to support these extensions.

Mural of US and China flags separated by a crack, representing trade conflict

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has announced a further extension of certain product exclusions from Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports. This extension provides continued relief from the 25% tariffs for certain goods through November 29, 2025. Previously, these exclusions were set to expire on August 31, 2025.

Following this announcement, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released a guidance bulletin providing instructions for importers, customs brokers, and filers on submitting entries with these exclusions.

Coverage and Product Scope

  • The 90-day extension affects 164 product-specific exclusions and 14 exclusions covering manufacturing equipment related to solar manufacturing and other technologies.
  • Covers products listed under Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) headings 9903.88.69 and 9903.88.70
  • Solar manufacturing equipment exclusions apply retroactively from January 1, 2024.
  • Applies to products entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouse between September 1, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EST and November 29, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

For the complete list, please refer to the official Federal Register notices regarding the extension and modification of exclusions related to China’s technology transfer, intellectual property, and innovation practices.

Background and Timeline

The exclusions are part of USTR’s ongoing investigation into China’s acts, policies, and practices concerning technology transfer, intellectual property rights, and innovation. Following public comments and a four-year review, the exclusions have been extended several times:

  • May 30, 2024: 164 narrowly-defined exclusions extended through May 31, 2025.
  • September 18, 2024: 14 new exclusions for certain solar manufacturing equipment, effective retroactively from January 1, 2024, through May 31, 2025.
  • May 31, 2025: Further extension of 178 exclusions through August 31, 2025.
  • August 29, 2025: Current extension announced, extending exclusions through November 29, 2025.

The decision to extend is based on continued stakeholder feedback, interagency review, and advisory committee recommendations.

What Importers Need to Know

  • The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has updated the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system to accept claims for these exclusions immediately for entries filed on or after September 1, 2025.
  • Importers, customs brokers, and filers must use HTSUS codes 9903.88.69 or 9903.88.70 to claim the applicable exclusions during this period.
  • Entry summary filing must comply with guidance in CBP Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) #64018403, which gives instructions on reporting multiple HTS classifications.
  • Proper certifications and documentation will be required at entry to secure duty-free treatment.
  • CBP will provide additional operational guidance as needed for compliance and enforcement.

Business Impact and Outlook

This extension grants temporary tariff relief, helping importers adjust sourcing and manufacturing plans without additional cost burdens from Section 301 duties. However, the trade environment remains dynamic, and further adjustments could occur depending on future agency decisions and market conditions.

For general questions, contact Philip Butler, Senior Associate General Counsel at (202) 395-572. For customs classification or exclusion implementation inquiries, reach out to traderemedy@cbp.dhs.gov.

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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