The Tariff Commission of the State Council has officially released the 2026 Tariff Adjustment Plan, which will come into effect on January 1, 2026. Guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, the plan fully implements the guiding principles of the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China and its subsequent plenary sessions. It adheres to the new development philosophy, promotes high-quality development, and supports the construction of a modern economic system.
The plan focuses on scientifically adjusting provisional import tariff rates, optimizing tariff classifications, and continuing the implementation of conventional and preferential tariff policies. These measures aim to foster the development of new quality productive forces, meet the growing demand for a better quality of life, expand high-level opening-up, and promote sustainable economic growth.
Key Policy Highlights
1. Expanding Market Access and Enhancing Supply Quality
To strengthen the integration of domestic and international markets and increase the supply of high-quality goods, provisional import tariff rates lower than the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rates will be applied to 935 products in 2026.
Key measures include:
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Reducing tariffs on critical components and advanced materials—such as CNC hydraulic cushions for presses and special composite contact materials—to support technological innovation and the development of a modern industrial system.
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Lowering tariffs on resource-based products, including recycled lithium battery black mass and unroasted pyrite, to support green transformation and sustainable development.
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Reducing tariffs on medical products such as artificial blood vessels and diagnostic test kits for certain infectious diseases to enhance public health protection.
2. Optimizing the Tariff Structure to Support Domestic Development
To strengthen domestic economic circulation and respond to changes in industrial supply and demand, China will cancel provisional import tariffs on selected products—such as micro motors, printing machinery, and sulfur—and restore the application of MFN tariff rates in accordance with its WTO commitments.
3. Supporting Technological Progress and Emerging Industries
To promote scientific and technological innovation, circular economy development, and forest-based industries, new tariff items will be added in 2026, including intelligent bionic robots, sustainable aviation biofuel, and forest-based ginseng products.
Following these adjustments, the total number of tariff lines will reach 8,972.
4. Deepening International Economic and Trade Cooperation
In line with China’s commitments under 24 free trade agreements and preferential trade arrangements with 34 trading partners, preferential tariff rates will continue to apply to eligible imported goods originating from these partners in 2026.
5. Supporting Least Developed Countries (LDCs)
To further promote inclusive development and South–South cooperation, China will continue to grant zero-tariff treatment on 100% of tariff lines for goods originating from 43 least developed countries that have established diplomatic relations with China.
Additionally, preferential tariff arrangements will continue to apply to certain imports from Bangladesh, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar under relevant Asia-Pacific trade agreements.
