Further Amendment to Duties Addressing the Synthetic Opioid Supply Chain in the People’s Republic of China as Applied to Low-Value Imports

Authority: The order is issued under various legal authorities, including the IEEPA and the National Emergencies Act.

Background:

• Many shippers in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) are found to hide illicit substances in shipments to the U.S.
• This practice exploits an exemption under the Tariff Act of 1930.

Impact on Synthetic Opioid Crisis:

• Previous Executive Orders (14195 and 14228) noted the significant role of PRC exports in the synthetic opioid crisis.

Suspension of Duty-Free Treatment:

• As of May 2, 2025, duty-free treatment for products from PRC and Hong Kong under the specified section of the Tariff Act will end.
• Additional duties will now be imposed on these imports.

Procedures for Entry:

• Shipments from PRC or Hong Kong valued at or under $800 will require entry by a qualified party, applicable duties must be paid.
• The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is tasked with enforcement and necessary actions.

Duties Imposed:

• All postal items valued at or under $800 that are sent through the international postal network will incur duties.
• The duties are specified as:
  • Ad Valorem Duty: 30% of the item's value for consumption on or after May 2, 2025.
  • Specific Duty: $25 per item from May 2 to June 1, 2025; $50 from June 1, 2025, onwards.

Bond Requirement:

• Carriers must have an international carrier bond to ensure duty payment.

Authority of CBP:

• CBP may require formal entry for certain postal packages, which will then be subjected to standard duties instead of the specified duties.

Implementation Actions:

• The Secretary of Homeland Security will implement necessary measures.
• A report on the order's impact on U.S. industries and consumers is to be submitted within 90 days.

Limitations:

• The order does not impair existing legal authorities or create enforceable rights against the U.S. or its entities.