October 14, 2025

U.S.–China Tariff Policy Enters Uncertain Phase as November Deadlines Approach

What Happened:

The U.S. Administration is reviewing Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports ahead of the temporary “pause” expiration on November 10, 2025. USTR, Commerce, and Treasury are evaluating options following China’s export controls on rare-earth materials and advanced-technology inputs.

Officials have warned that tariff increases up to 100 percent remain “on the table,” while others favor a negotiated approach to avoid inflation and supply-chain shocks.

Who’s Affected:

– Importers and distributors sourcing from China (consumer, hobby, electronics)

– U.S. manufacturers and small businesses relying on Chinese components

– Retailers and consumers facing potential price increases if exclusions lapse

– Logistics operators preparing for customs or retaliatory changes

Why It Matters:

If the current suspension expires without new guidance, tariff rates could rise sharply. Officials have publicly floated additional tariffs up to 100 percent, and some analyses describe combined scenarios approaching 130 percent on certain imports. For the hobby sector—largely under HTSUS 9503 (toys, models, scale recreations)—this review will determine whether current relief holds or gives way to substantially higher assessments.

Summary:

Until official action is taken, tariff rates remain unchanged at the current paused levels. The Hobby Industry Coalition will circulate verified updates as soon as USTR or the White House releases formal guidance.

Join now and be recognized on hobbycoalition.org and in official materials as one of the founding companies that helped secure the hobby industry's future.

JOIN NOW