According to a report from the American Lighting Association (ALA) to its membership, Michael Weems, VP/Government Engagement, relayed news that the USTR (government office of U.S. Trade Representative) has announced a delay in implementing the recently announced 10-percent tariffs affecting ceiling fans and LEDs on List 4 until December 15.
“This move offers clarity following the President’s Aug. 1 Twitter statement that List 4 would have a 10-percent tariff beginning Sept. 1,” Weems said in a statement. List 4 – which was proposed in mid-May – includes ceiling fans, LEDs, other light sources and accessory items.
ALA President Eric Jacobson’s testimony before the Section 301 committee and the ALA’s submitted public comments reportedly had a part in the delay, according to the association. “In determining the delayed effective date for ceiling fans and LEDs, USTR reviewed the import percentages of each product and found that 75 percent or more of the 2018 U.S. imports of each product were from China. Jacobson testified directly on this point which was supported in ALA’s comments,” Weems wrote.
Unfortunately, the 10-percent tariff for other light source categories and accessory items will still take effect on Sept. 1.
“The ultimate goal is to have all of the tariffs removed. Today’s move proves that USTR is finally recognizing that tariffs are nothing more than taxes paid for by American consumers. ALA is pleased that the tariffs on LEDs and ceiling fans have been delayed, but we would have liked for all lighting related HTS codes to be delayed until December,” Jacobson said after hearing news of the announcement.
These 10-percent tariffs, regardless of effective date, are in addition to any existing tariff rate.
