Tariff 119 FAQ Part 1: Core Questions on Tariff Rates
Among the consultations received by the Tariff 119 Comprehensive Support Center, the most frequent questions concern tariff rates. The U.S. tariff system is multilayered, combining base duties (MFN), additional duties under Section 301, 201, and 232, safeguards, and anti-dumping or countervailing duties, which often creates confusion for exporters. This FAQ summarizes the questions companies ask most often about tariff rates and the answers provided by customs specialists.
45% of total
Tariff Inquiries
Largest consultation area
0-20%
Base Tariff (MFN)
Varies by product
7.5-25%
Section 301
Additional duty on China-origin goods
25%
Section 232
Steel and aluminum
15-50%
Section 201
Safeguard measures
0-200%+
Anti-Dumping
Calculated case by case
Base Tariff FAQ
01
Q1: How can we check the U.S. import tariff rate for our product?
A: U.S. tariff rates can be checked through the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS). By entering the HS code on the USITC website, companies can identify the base tariff rate (General/MFN). Accurate HS classification is essential. If the classification is unclear, you can request a Binding Ruling from CBP to confirm the official product classification. Tariff 119 can assist with HS code verification.
02
Q2: If tariffs are eliminated under the Korea-U.S. FTA, are additional duties also waived?
A: No. Preferential tariff treatment under the Korea-U.S. FTA applies only to the base tariff (MFN). Additional duties under Section 301, 232, or 201 are imposed separately regardless of the FTA. For example, even if a product with a base tariff of 5% falls to 0% under the FTA, a 25% Section 301 duty would still leave the final tariff burden at 25%. Meeting FTA origin requirements helps only with exemption from the base tariff.
03
Q3: Do Section 301 additional duties apply to Korean products as well?
A: Section 301 duties apply to products determined to be of Chinese origin. Goods manufactured and exported directly from Korea are generally not covered. However, if a product is made in Korea using a high share of Chinese parts or raw materials, origin could still be determined as Chinese. Companies should be prepared to demonstrate that substantial transformation took place in Korea in order to secure Korean origin recognition.
Additional Duty FAQ
Comparison of Major U.S. Additional Duty Regimes
| Type | Legal Basis | Coverage | Rate | Impact on Korea |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 301 | Trade Act Section 301 | China-origin products | 7.5-25% | Indirect (raw materials) |
| Section 232 | Trade Expansion Act Section 232 | Steel and aluminum | 25%/10% | Directly applicable |
| Section 201 | Trade Act Section 201 | Washers and solar products | 15-50% | Directly applicable (Korea Corp, 코리아디스플레이) |
| Anti-Dumping | Tariff Act Section 731 | Products found to be dumped | Case specific | Varies by item |
| Countervailing Duty | Tariff Act Section 701 | Subsidized products | Case specific | Selected items |
01
Q4: Is there any way to avoid the 25% Section 232 steel duty?
A: Section 232 duties apply directly to Korean steel products and are not exempted through the FTA. However, companies may apply for a Product Exclusion. If there is no viable substitute supply in the United States for a specific steel grade, an exclusion request can be filed with BIS. Tariff 119 supports companies in checking whether they qualify and in preparing the application materials.
02
Q5: Can tariff rates change suddenly, and how should we monitor them?
A: Yes. U.S. tariff policy can change at any time through Executive Orders or announcements from USTR. Companies should regularly monitor the Federal Register, USTR notices, and CBP bulletins. Tariff 119 tracks tariff changes affecting Korean firms in real time and provides alerts by email and text message to registered companies. Registration on the Tariff 119 portal is recommended.
Practical Guide
Tariff Check Tools
HTS Searchusitc.gov/tata/hts
FTA VerificationKITA FTA Portal
CBP Rulingrulings.cbp.gov
Tariff 119Free expert consultation
Tariff Reduction Strategies
Use the FTA0% when origin rules are met
Optimize HS CodeApply the most favorable classification
Apply for ExclusionSection 232 product exclusion
Seek RefundsRecover overpaid duties
Confirm HS Code
Accurate product classification (6 digits+)
→↓
Check Base Tariff
Review HTS MFN rate
→↓
Check FTA Eligibility
Verify origin rule compliance
→↓
Review Additional Duties
Check Section 301, 232, or 201 exposure
→↓
Calculate Final Tariff
Base duty + additional duty = total tariff
→↓
Build Reduction Plan
Consult Tariff 119 specialists
Tariff Response 119 FAQ, Part 3: HS Code and Customs ValueReview the FAQ on HS codes and customs valuation
Overview of the Tariff Response 119 Comprehensive Support CenterSee the full range of services offered by Tariff 119
Tariff rates have a direct impact on export price competitiveness, and a weak understanding of the applicable rules can quickly translate into commercial losses. Through expert consultation from Tariff 119, companies can confirm the exact tariff rate applicable to their products and make lawful use of tools such as FTA benefits, HS code optimization, and exclusion applications.
Tariff 119FAQTariff RatesU.S. TariffsSection 301
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