US delays China tariff increases for certain products
14 / 08 / 2019
The ongoing tariff trade war between China and the US took an unexpected twist last night when the US announced a delay to increases on some products.
The US Trade Representative (USTR) office last night announced that it it would not implement a 10% tariff on products include mobile phones, laptops, game consoles, some toys, computer monitors, and certain clothing.
However, increases on other products will go ahead on September 1 as planned.
“Certain products are being removed from the tariff list based on health, safety, national security and other factors and will not face additional tariffs of 10%,” USTR said.
“Further, as part of USTR’s public comment and hearing process, it was determined that the tariff should be delayed to December 15 for certain articles.”
US president Donald Trump said that the delay was in part to avoid hitting shoppers ahead of Christmas.
The US National Retail Federation welcomed the news: “While we are still reviewing the details, we are pleased the administration is delaying some tariffs ahead of the holiday season and acknowledging the impact on American consumers.
“Still, uncertainty for US businesses continues, and tariffs taking effect September 1 will result in higher costs for American families and slow the US economy. During this delay period, we urge the administration to develop an effective strategy to address China’s unfair trade practices by working with our allies instead of using unilateral tariffs that cost American jobs and hurt consumers.”
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Trump announced his plans to add the 10% tariff on $300bn worth of imported Chinese goods in August.
It was the latest in a series of tit-for-tat tariff increases as the two countries negotiate a new trade deal.
The president feels that negotiations are not moving fast enough.
