China Reduces Tariffs on U.S. Agricultural Imports, Excludes Soybeans

China has announced lower tariffs on a wide range of U.S. agricultural products, marking a further step toward easing trade tensions between Beijing and Washington. The changes, announced on September 28, cover several major farm commodities. However, soybeans, the largest U.S. agricultural export to China, are not included and will continue to face an additional 10% tariff.

China’s revised tariff list includes pulses, corn, wheat, sorghum, vegetable oils and meals, meat, dairy products and other agricultural goods. More than 90% of the products on the list will receive most-favoured-nation (MFN) tariff treatment, reducing the extra duties previously imposed on U.S. imports.

The move is particularly important for the U.S. pulse industry. Tariffs on U.S. pulses will fall to zero, improving their competitiveness in the Chinese market. The list covers most major pulse categories, including field peas, chickpeas, lentils, beans, and other pulse products.

Lower tariffs could encourage Chinese buyers to source more pulses from the United States. It may also help U.S. suppliers compete with other major exporters. Increased demand could come from China’s food-processing industry, ingredient manufacturers and other users of pulses. Overall, the tariff cuts could support stronger trade flows between the two countries.

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