According to a report by Voice of America on September 13, the U.S. government announced a significant increase in import tariffs on Chinese products, including a 100% tariff hike on electric vehicles, aimed at protecting key domestic industries.
A press release from the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office stated that some of these tariffs will take effect on September 27. In addition to the 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, the U.S. will impose a 50% tariff on Chinese solar cells and a 25% tariff on Chinese steel, aluminum, electric vehicle batteries, and critical minerals.
Additionally, the U.S. will increase import tariffs on Chinese semiconductors by 50%, with this new rate taking effect in January 2025. This category now includes polysilicon and silicon wafers used in solar panels.
China’s Ministry of Commerce spokesperson He Yunguan said on the 5th that the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office had previously sought public comments on the tariff review, with most opposing the additional tariffs or requesting expanded exemptions. He stated that this demonstrates the unpopularity of the U.S. Section 301 tariffs on China and urged the U.S. to immediately remove all additional tariffs on Chinese goods.
