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Federal Court upholds Section 301 tariffs on China
Federal Circuit upholds lists 3 and 4A Section 301 tariffs on China
On 25 September, 2025, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) upheld the legality of Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports under Lists 3 and 4A. These tariffs, ranging from 7.5% to 25%, were imposed in response to China's unfair trade practises affecting U.S. intellectual property and technology. This decision reinforces the government's ability to escalate trade measures under Section 301 and may be appealed to the Supreme Court.
Commerce department launches Section 232 investigation into machine tools and industrial robots
The U.S. Department of Commerce has initiated a Section 232 investigation examining the national security implications of importing industrial machinery and robotics. The scope of the review includes computer-controlled mechanical systems; stamping and pressing machines; machine tools for milling, cutting and welding; as well as laser and water-cutting equipment.
Additional categories under review include deburring tools, metal finishing and treatment systems, autoclaves, industrial ovens and industrial robots. Although the investigation began three weeks prior, an official notice was published in the Federal Register on 26 September, 2025. The public comment period remains open through 17 October 2025.
Commerce Department launches Section 232 investigation into medical goods
The U.S. Department of Commerce has initiated a Section 232 investigation examining the national security implications of importing medical goods. The scope of the review includes a wide array of products such as personal protective equipment, medical devices and consumables. Although the investigation began three weeks prior, an official notice was published in the Federal Register on 26 September, 2025. The public comment period remains open through 17 October 2025.
Interest rates for late payments and refunds to remain the same
For the quarter beginning 1 October 2025, interest rates on overdue customs duties (underpayments) and refunds (overpayments) will remain the same as the previous quarter. The interest rates for underpayments will be 7% for both corporations and non-corporations. The interest rate for overpayments will be 7% for non-corporations and 6% for corporations.
Lumber/furniture 232 tariff details are released
Beginning on 14 October, new tariffs will take effect on a range of wood and furniture products. Timber and lumber building materials will face a 10% duty, while upholstered furniture along with wood vanities and kitchen cabinets will be subject to a 25% tariff. These rates are scheduled to rise further on 1 January, 2026, increasing to 30% for upholstered furniture and to 50% for cabinets and vanities. The only exceptions to the standard rates are for the European Union and Japan, where tariffs are capped at 15% and the United Kingdom, where tariffs are capped at 10%. These rates will remain in effect unless the U.S. reaches agreements with countries addressing national security concerns related to wood product imports. These changes add yet another layer of complexity to customs brokerage entries, requiring careful attention to classifications and sourcing strategies.
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