US Tariff Policy Adjustment: China Commerce Ministry Response and Supply Chain Strategies

Overview of Latest US Tariff Policy Adjustments

In the early morning of February 24, 2026, U.S. Customs, according to relevant U.S. government announcements, stopped collecting tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) and began imposing import surcharges on all trading partners under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974. This policy adjustment marks a new phase in tariff policy during Trump’s second term. According to U.S. Supreme Court tariff litigation rulings and relevant executive orders, the U.S. has stopped collecting the 10% so-called fentanyl tariffs and 34% reciprocal tariffs imposed on Chinese goods in early February and April 2025, with the actual tariff level on China being 20%.

However, the U.S. simultaneously imposed a 10% import surcharge under Section 122 and indicated in multiple occasions that it would use Section 301 and 232 investigations to impose tariffs. This policy volatility not only increases global trade uncertainty but also forces enterprises worldwide to reassess supply chain layout and risk management strategies.

China Commerce Ministry’s Official Response

In response to U.S. tariff adjustments, China Commerce Ministry spokesperson clearly stated: China is closely monitoring and will comprehensively evaluate relevant U.S. measures, and will decide on adjustments to countermeasures against original U.S. fentanyl tariffs and reciprocal tariffs at an appropriate time based on circumstances. China will reserve the right to take all necessary measures to firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests. This response reflects China’s strategic composure in trade disputes—neither proactively escalating conflicts nor abandoning countermeasure rights.