Amending Reciprocal Tariff Rates to Align with Ongoing Negotiations with the People's Republic of China
The President, by executive orders, has imposed and modified tariffs on goods imported from the People's Republic of China (PRC). As of August 21, 2025, the reciprocal tariffs and duties on imports from China under Executive Order 14298 (issued May 12, 2025) remain in effect with a significant reduction from prior rates.
The 10% reciprocal tariff, effective from May 14, 2025, applies to Chinese goods, including those from Hong Kong and Macau. However, these 10% tariffs are additional to other existing duties, resulting in a cumulative tariff burden of around 30% due to overlapping tariffs.
These overlapping tariffs include the 10% reciprocal tariff under Executive Order 14298, a 20% IEEPA-based tariff related to the fentanyl national emergency, other tariffs such as Section 301 (ranging from 7.5% to 25%, sometimes up to 100%), Most Favored Nation tariffs, and Section 232 industry-specific tariffs.
Notably, although Executive Order 14298 imposed these 10% tariffs as a new baseline, the United States continued the suspension of heightened tariffs above this baseline through at least November 10, 2025. This suspension was extended on August 11, 2025, maintaining the 10% reciprocal tariff but pausing the higher previously imposed rates until that date.
The suspension is set to expire on November 10, 2025, after which the higher tariffs could potentially be reinstated if no further agreements are reached. Tariff rules apply to goods entered for consumption or withdrawn from warehouses on or after May 14, 2025, with some transitional provisions for shipments in transit before August 7, 2025.
The costs for publication of this order will be borne by the Office of the United States Trade Representative. The order does not grant any new powers or authorities and is subject to the Director of the Office of Management and Budget's budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.
The tariffs were initially imposed due to large and persistent U.S. goods trade deficits, which were deemed a national emergency. Various executive departments and agencies are directed to implement and effectuate the order, consistent with applicable law. Discussions between the U.S. and the PRC have taken place to address the lack of trade reciprocity and national security concerns.
The PRC retaliated against these tariffs, leading to modifications in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The order does not create any rights or benefits enforceable at law or in equity by any party. Heading 9903.01.63 and subdivision (v)(xiv)(10) of U.S. note 2 to subchapter III of chapter 99 of the HTSUS are suspended until November 10, 2025. The order was issued by President Donald J. Trump on August 11, 2025.
