U.S. Proposes Additional Tariffs on $2.4 Billion in French Products

On December 6, 2019, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) published a Federal Register notice announcing that it will consider imposing additional duties of up to 100 percent on products of France totaling approximately $2.4 billion. The proposed tariff list covers 63 tariff subheadings and includes a variety of French products, such as yogurt, butter, cheeses, champagnes, beauty products, handbags, and tableware. The Federal Register notice and the complete list of products can be read here.
 
The proposed action is related to the France Digital Services Tax, which the USTR determined is unreasonable or discriminatory and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce. The USTR is soliciting public comments on the proposed tariff list and will hold a public hearing pursuant to the following schedule:

• December 30, 2019: Due date for request to appear at the public hearing and a summary of testimony.
• January 6, 2020: Due date for written comments.
• January 7, 2020: Public hearing.
• January 14, 2020: Due date for post-hearing rebuttal comments.

 
For more information, please contact a BDO Customs and International Trade Services professional.