China announced lowering the import duties on resource-based commodities in 2026

Starting January 1, 2026, China will implement its 2026 Tariff Adjustment Plan, which introduces provisional import tariff rates lower than the standard Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rates for 935 items.

This measure aims to bolster domestic high-tech manufacturing, support green development, and improve public health.

Look at this recent article from REUTERS...

China announced lowering the import duties on resource-based commodities such as recycled black powder for lithium-ion batteries. The country will also lower levies on medical products including artificial blood vessels and diagnostic kits for certain infectious disease, according to a statement by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council......See more from REUTERS here

Here's what to know:

China import tariffs beginning 2026. China announced lowering the import duties on resource-based commodities. Key Import Tariff Reductions

Green Resources: Tariffs will be reduced on resource-based commodities such as recycled black mass (recycled lithium-ion battery material) and unroasted pyrite to facilitate circular economy goals.

Advanced Materials & Components: Lower rates will apply to key parts for high-level technological self-reliance, including CNC hydraulic cushions for presses and specialized composite contact strips.

Medical Products: Reductions target items such as artificial blood vessels and diagnostic kits for specific infectious diseases to enhance healthcare accessibility.

Emerging Sectors: New national subheadings will be added for intelligent bionic robots and bio-aviation kerosene to support niche industrial growth.

Here is getting exciting over China announced lowering the import duties on resource-based commodities in 2026: Retained and Increased Tariffs 

Reinstated MFN Rates: Provisional low rates will be abolished for goods such as micro motors, printing machines, and sulphuric acid, reverting them to standard MFN rates based on domestic supply-demand changes.

Strategic Exports: China will maintain export tariffs on 107 products, including ferrochrome and other critical resource-related materials.

US-Specific Trade Tensions: While broad adjustments take effect in 2026, additional retaliatory tariffs of 34% to 125% imposed in 2025 on U.S. imports (including farm products like soy and beef) may remain in place depending on ongoing trade negotiations.

The truth is this:  It isn’t static. It moves. Fast. Constantly. Relentlessly. Because trade moves through countries: Global & Regional Agreements

Preferential Trade: China will continue applying preferential tariff rates for 34 trading partners under 24 free trade agreements (FTAs), including those with ASEAN members.

LDC Support: 43 least-developed countries with diplomatic relations with China will continue to receive zero-tariff treatment on 100% of tariff lines in 2026.