USTR officially extends Section 301 product exclusions, including shredder wear parts

On November 26, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) announced an additional extension of 178 product exclusions under the Section 301 investigation into China’s technology transfer and intellectual property practices.

The exclusions, which were previously scheduled to expire on November 29, 2025, will now remain in place through November 9, 2026. Among the renewed exclusions are shredder wear parts imported under HTS code 8479.90.9596, a priority for ReMA members, ensuring these essential components continue to avoid this particular tariff, which would be 25 percent.

However, Chinese imports of shredder wear parts under this HTS remain subject to the emergency fentanyl tariffs under IEEPA (10 percent) and the Section 232 steel and aluminum derivatives tariff (50 percent of the value of the steel/aluminum content). The Section 232 steel and aluminum derivative duty applies to all countries, including China.

This extension for nearly 11 months was expected, as it reflects the commitment reached by President Trump and Chinese President Xi as part of the trade and economic deal announced at the end of October. It also takes into account the public comments submitted during the public comment period earlier this fall.

ReMA submitted comments during this process emphasizing the importance of maintaining the exclusion for shredder wear parts, noting the significant operational and cost impacts these tariffs would have on recyclers.

This renewal marks the fourth time since 2024 that USTR has extended this group of exclusions. ReMA will continue monitoring USTR’s actions on Section 301 and advocating for policies that support stable and affordable access to critical equipment and materials.