Section 232 Inclusion Request - North American Die Casting Association 7

A Section 232 measure is a U.S. trade action based on a finding that imports of a product may threaten national security. The measure can apply to specified products, often identified by Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) classification, and may impose an additional duty or another import requirement. The exact scope and treatment must be confirmed in the official measure and current HTSUS instructions.

It typically affects importers, manufacturers, distributors, and other businesses bringing covered goods into the United States. The importer of record is generally responsible for making the entry declaration, reporting the correct classification, and paying applicable duties and fees. A 232 measure matters because it can change the landed cost, entry data, documentation, and supply-chain decisions even when the product also has ordinary customs duty or another trade remedy.

Do not rely on a product name alone. Classification depends on the product’s characteristics, composition, condition, intended use, and other facts. Check whether the measure covers the HTSUS provision, country of origin, quantity or value basis, and any exclusions, quota treatment, exemptions, or derivative-product rules. When the answer is uncertain, consult a customs broker or other qualified trade professional and consider seeking official classification guidance.

What to check

• Confirm the product’s complete HTSUS classification, including any reporting number required by the measure; do not use a broad description as a substitute.
• Read the measure’s scope and product definitions carefully, including derivative articles, exclusions, covered forms, and any country-specific provisions.
• Verify the product’s country of origin and, where relevant, the country of export, because Section 232 treatment may differ by origin or arrangement.
• Check the current HTSUS Chapter 99 provisions, filing instructions, and official agency guidance for the applicable additional duty, quota, exemption, or certification requirements.
• Keep product specifications, bills of materials, supplier records, origin support, and entry documents, and ask a customs broker to review uncertain classifications or eligibility for an exclusion or exemption.