"2026 Tariff Adjustment" State Council Introduces 935 New Import Policies

As the year-end and New Year approach, the State Council Customs Tariff Commission has introduced a major adjustment plan. The new tariff policy, officially implemented from January 1, 2026, will have a profound impact on the import and export trade landscape. This reform focuses on optimizing tariff classifications and promoting high-quality development, involving three key areas: adjustment of import tariffs, new product classifications, and preferential treatment for developing countries.

Import Tariff Optimization—935 Items Included in the New Low Tariff Policy

The core of the new tariff policy is reflected first in the adjustment of provisional import tariffs. The State Council has decided to implement provisional import tariffs lower than the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rates on 935 items, covering three strategic sectors. Key protective measures target critical technological components to strengthen the domestic industrial chain; resource-based commodities related to green transformation receive policy tilt in line with carbon neutrality goals; and tax reduction arrangements for medical and health products demonstrate a policy priority on people’s livelihood.

At the same time, the policy also clarifies the other side of the adjustment direction—cancelling provisional import tariffs on some products. Items such as micro-motors and printing machines will revert to applying MFN rates, reflecting a market-oriented approach and dynamic adjustment mindset.

New Tariff Categories—Innovative Products like Smart Robots Officially Listed

Improving the tariff classification system is another highlight of this reform. The State Council has added new tariff classifications for cutting-edge products such as intelligent bionic robots and bio-aviation kerosene, expanding the total number of tariff items to 8,972. This adjustment demonstrates the country’s support for emerging industries and green energy, providing a clearer tariff framework for the import and export of these innovative fields.

Expansion of Foreign Preferences—Zero Tariff Treatment for Least Developed Countries Continues

On the international trade policy front, the reform also advances. The State Council continues to implement zero tariff treatment for 100% of tariff items on products from 43 least developed countries, reflecting China’s international responsibility in promoting fair global trade. Additionally, preferential tariff rates have been introduced for imports from ASEAN member countries, further deepening regional economic integration.

The new tariff policy framework balances industrial development, people’s welfare, and international responsibilities. Through precise adjustments of import tariffs and systematic optimization of tariff classifications, it creates a more flexible policy environment for foreign trade in 2026.