Have you ever heard of tariffs that can soar over 400%? These are not your everyday import taxes—they’re the kind that can be charged at the border, and even after paying, you might not get your goods released. US anti-dumping and countervailing duties (AD/CVD) have long been a nightmare for exporters, causing major disruptions and losses in various industries. If you’re exporting to the US, it’s crucial to know whether your product falls under these punitive measures.
Step 1: Understanding AD/CVD
AD/CVD duties are imposed on imported goods that are considered to be sold at unfairly low prices (dumped) or subsidized by a foreign government. This practice is designed to protect domestic industries from unfair competition. However, for exporters, being caught under AD/CVD regulations can result in exorbitant duties and severe financial strain.
Step 2: Accessing the US Department of Commerce’s ACCESS System
Unlike the systems used to look up HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes, checking for AD/CVD measures requires you to use the official ACCESS system provided by the US Department of Commerce. To get started:
- Google “ITA ACCESS AD/CVD Search” – The first result will typically take you directly to the AD/CVD search interface.
- Enter Your HTS Code – Once on the page, input the first four digits of your product’s HTS code. If you’re not familiar with how to look up your HTS code, consider reviewing a guide on checking US tariffs.
Step 3: Analyzing the Search Results
- No Results?
Congratulations! If your search returns no results, it means that your product category is not currently under AD/CVD sanctions, and you’re in the clear. - Results Found?
If you see search results, it indicates that your product might be affected by AD/CVD measures. In this case:- Click on one of the results to dive into more details.
- Check the “HTS Numbers” section for a list of all sanctioned codes.
- Review the “Scope of the Order” for a detailed definition of the affected products and any exemptions that may apply.
Step 4: Further Research on Specific Duties
It’s important to note that the ACCESS system does not provide the exact tariff rate. For more detailed information on a specific AD/CVD order—including the precise duty percentage—you will need to consult the related documents published in the Federal Register by the US Department of Commerce.
Final Thoughts
Exporters must be vigilant when entering the US market. Using the ACCESS system to verify whether your product is subject to AD/CVD measures is a simple yet essential step. Just remember: search using the first four digits of your HTS code, review the search results carefully, and stay informed about any updates in US trade regulations. With these checks in place, you can better safeguard your business from unexpected tariff shocks.
May your searches return no results, and your exports sail smoothly!