Biden Administration Implements Steep Tariffs on Chinese Imports

The Biden administration has confirmed significant tariff increases on Chinese imports to protect strategic industries from China's state-driven practices. Effective from Sept. 27, the tariffs include a 100% duty on electric vehicles, 50% on solar cells, and 25% on steel, aluminum, and key minerals. The action aims to counter China's subsidies and technology transfers.

The Biden administration on Friday solidified substantial tariff hikes on Chinese imports, establishing a 100% duty on electric vehicles to enhance protections for strategic industries against China's state-driven industrial practices. The U.S. Trade Representative's office reported that the tariffs, encompassing a 100% duty on Chinese EVs, 50% on solar cells, and 25% on steel, aluminum, EV batteries, and key minerals, will commence on Sept. 27.

A newly published determination by the USTR, first reported by Reuters, indicated that a 50% duty on Chinese semiconductors—including silicon wafers and polysilicon used in solar panels—will take effect in 2025. This decision concludes a two-year review of tariffs initiated under former president Donald Trump, largely maintaining the top-line duty increases announced earlier by President Joe Biden.

Additionally, the Biden administration upheld Trump's tariffs on over $300 billion of Chinese goods, ranging from toys and t-shirts to internet routers and industrial machinery, with rates spanning 7.5% to 25%. Despite industry objections about the potential disruption of supply chains, the administration insists on the necessity of 'tough, targeted' tariffs to counteract China's state-driven subsidies and technology transfer policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)