ASA Toolkit on Proposed New Tariffs on Chinese Products

On May 13, 2019, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) released a proposed list of imported Chinese products on which to impose Section 301 tariffs of up to 25 percent. This list of 3,805 full and partial Harmonized Tariff Schedule subheadings covers essentially all products not already subject to Section 301 additional tariffs, including fishing equipment.

While the sportfishing industry supports realigning our trade relationship to be fairer with China, we are deeply concerned about the impacts of these proposed tariffs on domestic jobs, fishing participation and conservation funding. Recreational fishing equipment is already subject to a unique excise tax of up to 10 percent. Adding additional tariffs of up to 25 percent would be difficult for the industry to withstand.

Currently, the Administration has agreed to hold-off on imposing new tariffs on Chinese imports while the U.S. and China work towards a trade deal.

ASA will continue to advocate for no additional taxes for the recreational fishing industry until a permanent fair trade agreement is accomplished. The following resources are intended to assist ASA Members in learning more about the proposed new tariffs and engaging with Congress.

• ASA overview on proposed new tariffs – general information from ASA on the proposed new tariffs
• Guidance for Congressional outreach – information on how to contact your Congressional delegation, including a sample letter
• Listen to the Q&A conference call from June 6, 2019
• ASA’s USTR submission
• Tariff Update: Sportfishing Equipment will be Impacted by Next Round of Tariffs – ASA Policy Alert, August 14, 2019

If you have any questions, or for more information, please contact ASA Vice President of Government Affairs Mike Leonard at mleonard@asafishing.org