US Import Tariff Rates by Country 2026: Complete Reference Guide
Understanding current US import tariff rates is critical for importers, customs brokers, and trade compliance professionals. With significant tariff changes in 2025-2026, including new trade deals and policy shifts, keeping track of rates by country has become increasingly complex.
This guide provides current tariff rate ranges for major US trading partners as of February 2026.
Key Takeaways
- China: Base MFN rates plus Section 301 tariffs (7.5-25%) = effective rates of 20-45% on many goods
- Mexico & Canada: USMCA goods at 0-5%, non-qualifying goods at 25-35%
- European Union: 15% average, varies significantly by product category
- Vietnam & Southeast Asia: 19-20% on many categories, up from pre-2025 levels
- India: New trade deal reduces rates from 50% to ~18% on qualifying exports
Current Tariff Rate Overview by Country
China
| Category | 2024 Rate | 2026 Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Most goods | 7.5-25% | 20-45% | Section 301 + base MFN |
| Electronics | 0-2.5% | 10-25% | Many exemptions expired |
| Industrial machinery | 0-5% | 15-30% | Depends on HTS chapter |
| Consumer goods | 10-25% | 25-45% | Highest tariff increases |
Key consideration: China-origin goods face layered tariffs—the base MFN rate plus Section 301 additional duties. Understanding Section 301 tariffs is essential for accurate cost calculations.
Mexico
| Category | Standard Rate | USMCA Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USMCA-qualifying | - | 0-5% | Must meet rules of origin |
| Non-qualifying | 25% | - | Announced Jan 2025 |
| Autos & parts | 25% | 0% | If USMCA certified |
| Agricultural | 0-25% | 0% | Most duty-free under USMCA |
Key consideration: USMCA origin rules require careful documentation. Non-qualifying goods face the 25% tariff regardless of Mexico assembly.
Canada
| Category | Standard Rate | USMCA Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USMCA-qualifying | - | 0-5% | Regional value content required |
| Non-qualifying | 35% | - | Higher than Mexico rate |
| Dairy | Various | Quota-limited | TRQs apply |
| Lumber | Various | Countervailing duties | Trade dispute ongoing |
European Union
| Category | 2024 Rate | 2026 Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average | 3-5% | 15% | Broad increase |
| Autos | 2.5% | 15-25% | Luxury vehicles higher |
| Wine & spirits | Various | 25% | Section 232 related |
| Machinery | 0-3% | 10-15% | Industrial equipment |
Key consideration: EU rates increased significantly in 2025-2026. Watch for potential trade negotiations that could reduce rates.
Southeast Asia
| Country | 2024 Rate | 2026 Rate | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | 0-7% | 20% | Major increase |
| Indonesia | 0-5% | 19% | Major increase |
| Thailand | 0-7% | 18% | Major increase |
| Malaysia | 0-5% | 17% | Major increase |
| Philippines | 0-5% | 15% | Moderate increase |
| Bangladesh | 0-5% | 20% | Major increase |
Key consideration: Southeast Asian supply chains built to avoid China tariffs now face their own significant duties. HTS classification accuracy is critical to determine actual rates.
Other Major Trading Partners
| Country | 2026 Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Japan | 15% | Up from near 0% on most goods |
| South Korea | 15% | KORUS FTA impacts vary |
| Taiwan | 15-20% | Electronics, semiconductors |
| India | 18% | Post-trade deal (Feb 2026) |
| Brazil | 10-15% | Agricultural goods lower |
| UK | 15% | Post-Brexit rates |
India Trade Deal (February 2026)
A major US-India trade framework was announced February 3, 2026, significantly changing the tariff landscape:
- Previous rate: 50% on most Indian exports
- New rate: ~18% on qualifying goods
- India's concession: 0% duty on many US industrial goods
- Additional terms: $500B US goods purchase commitment
This represents one of the most significant bilateral tariff reductions in recent years.
Understanding Tariff Layers
US import tariffs often stack multiple duty types:
- MFN (Column 1) Rate: Base tariff for WTO members
- Section 301 Duties: Additional tariffs on Chinese goods
- Section 232 Duties: National security tariffs (steel, aluminum)
- Antidumping/Countervailing Duties: Product-specific penalties
- Safeguard Measures: Temporary protection for domestic industries
A single import might face:
- 5% MFN rate
- 25% Section 301 duty
- 25% Section 232 duty
= 55% total duty
Learn more about antidumping and countervailing duties.
Who Bears the Cost?
Recent research from the Kiel Institute (January 2026) analyzed import data and found:
- US importers and consumers: Bear approximately 96% of tariff costs through higher prices
- Foreign exporters: Absorb only 4% through price reductions
This contradicts the common assumption that exporting countries pay tariffs. In reality, tariffs function as a tax on American businesses and consumers.
De Minimis Exemption Changes
As of 2025, the de minimis exemption for low-value shipments ($800) has ended for most commercial shipments. This means:
- All commercial imports now require formal customs entry
- Small package imports face full duty assessment
- E-commerce supply chains significantly impacted
- Sellers reporting 15% flat tariff impact on small shipments
Read more: De Minimis Exemption Ends 2026
Calculating Actual Duty Rates
Accurate duty calculation requires:
- Correct HTS Classification: The 10-digit code determines the rate
- Country of Origin: Affects applicable rates and trade agreements
- Trade Agreement Eligibility: FTAs can reduce or eliminate duties
- Product Value: Duties calculated on transaction value
- Special Program Eligibility: GSP, AGOA, etc.
Duty Simulator helps customs professionals calculate accurate duties by automating HTS classification and applying current rates.
Common Classification Mistakes
Incorrect HTS codes lead to wrong duty rates. Top 10 HTS classification mistakes include:
- Misidentifying material composition
- Ignoring country of origin rules
- Overlooking trade agreement benefits
- Using outdated tariff schedules
- Misclassifying composite goods
Strategies for Managing Tariff Costs
Short-Term
- Verify classifications: Ensure HTS codes are accurate to avoid overpayment
- Claim FTA benefits: Many importers miss preferential rates they qualify for
- Review supplier invoicing: Transaction value affects duty amount
- Apply for exclusions: Tariff exclusion process may provide relief
Long-Term
- Supply chain diversification: Consider multiple sourcing countries
- Foreign Trade Zones: FTZ benefits can defer or reduce duties
- Duty drawback: Claim refunds on re-exported goods
- Classification planning: Work with brokers on optimal classification
Staying Current on Rates
Tariff rates change frequently due to:
- New trade agreements
- Policy announcements
- Section 301/232 modifications
- Antidumping/CVD determinations
- Exclusion expirations
Best practice: Verify rates at time of entry using official sources like USITC's HTS database or work with customs classification software that maintains current rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current tariff rate on Chinese goods?
Most Chinese goods face 20-45% effective tariff rates, combining base MFN duties with Section 301 additional tariffs. Electronics and industrial goods at the lower end, consumer products at the higher end.
Did USMCA eliminate all tariffs on Mexican goods?
No. USMCA provides duty-free treatment only for goods meeting rules of origin requirements. Non-qualifying goods face 25% tariffs announced in January 2025.
How did the India trade deal change tariff rates?
The February 2026 US-India trade deal reduced tariffs on Indian exports from 50% to approximately 18%. India reciprocated with 0% duties on many US industrial goods.
Who actually pays import tariffs?
Research shows US importers and consumers bear approximately 96% of tariff costs through higher prices. Foreign exporters absorb only about 4% through reduced prices.
Where can I find official tariff rates?
The US International Trade Commission maintains the official Harmonized Tariff Schedule at hts.usitc.gov. For practical classification and rate lookup, specialized tools like Duty Simulator provide faster, more accurate results.
Tariff rates change frequently. This guide reflects rates as of February 2026. Always verify current rates through official sources or classification software before making import decisions.
Need accurate HTS classification and duty calculations? Try Duty Simulator for AI-powered customs classification that keeps pace with changing tariff rates.
Related Reading
- US Tariff Revenue Hits $287 Billion in 2025 — The numbers behind the surge: 192% increase, highest effective rates since 1943
- Tariff Changes in 2026: What Every Importer Needs to Know — Comprehensive overview of all current tariff programs
- Section 301 Tariffs Explained — Deep dive on China tariffs
- Tariff Exclusion Process Guide — How to apply for tariff relief