Two new Executive Orders issued on November 4, 2025, update U.S. duty rates on Chinese-origin goods and outline continued suspension of certain reciprocal tariffs, affecting compliance expectations and future import planning.

The first Executive Order reduces the additional tariff rate on certain Chinese-origin goods from 20% down to 10%, effective November 10, 2025. These tariffs were originally imposed to address the flow of synthetic opioids and precursor chemicals into the U.S.

A second Executive Order continues the suspension of higher reciprocal tariffs that were previously imposed on Chinese imports under the U.S. reciprocal tariff policy.

Following discussions between the U.S. and Chinese leadership at the end of October, the two countries reached a broader economic and trade arrangement. Under this deal, China has committed to:

• Halt export controls on rare earths and critical minerals

• End retaliatory measures targeting U.S. semiconductor companies

• Increase purchases of U.S. agricultural goods (including soybeans, sorghum, and logs)

• Suspend tariffs on many U.S. agricultural imports through 2026

• Extend tariff exclusion programs for U.S. imports through November 10, 2026

In exchange, the U.S. will maintain the current 10% duty rate and continue to suspend any higher reciprocal tariffs until November 10, 2026.

As with the fentanyl-related tariff reduction, U.S. agencies, including the Department of the Treasury, Commerce, and USTR will monitor China’s implementation and may reinstate higher tariff rates if China does not fulfill its commitments.

We will continue to monitor for CBP guidance and HTS updates regarding specific tariff modifications and implementation details.