New Section 301 Duties Proposed for Certain French Products

The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has determined that the Digital Services Tax that will be imposed by France is unreasonable or discriminatory and burdens or restricts U.S. commerce.  As a result, the Section 301 committee will hold hearings to determine which products from France may be subject to additional duties of up to 100% of the dutiable value to compensate for this action by France.  The 63 tariff subheadings that have been identified as candidates for this assessment cover a variety of products that include yoghurt, butter, various cheeses, sparkling wine, cosmetics, handbags, and tableware.  A full list of the products and the HTSUS codes that have been selected for potential retaliation is available from our office. The following schedule applies:

December 30, 2019: Due date for a request to appear at the public hearing and summary of testimony

January 6, 2020: Due date for written comments

January 7, 2020: Public hearings will be commenced

January 14, 2020: Due date for post-hearing rebuttal comments

Please contact our office if you should have any questions with respect to this matter.