The UK implemented new trade defence measures against the United States today, targeting twelve commodity lines for specific grades of polyethylene. The measures, which fall under HS Chapter 39 for plastics, were loaded and took effect on 2 July, marking a notable shift from the large-scale administrative rollovers of steel and agricultural quotas that dominated the start of the quarter. Today's update also saw a new 0% duty suspension on an organic chemical come into force, alongside significant nomenclature activity in the chapter for works of art.
Headline: New Trade Defence Measures on US Plastics
The main development today is the introduction of new trade defence measures on imports of polyethylene from the United States. The measures apply to twelve specific commodity codes within HS Chapter 39, covering various grades of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and other ethylene copolymers. These new protective duties, loaded and activated today, represent a significant policy action following the major administrative resets at the start of the quarter.
Also Coming into Force
Beyond the headline trade defence action, 54 measures took effect today. Key among them was a new customs duty suspension, setting a 0% tariff rate for imports of Fluopyram (HS 2933399995), an organic chemical, from all countries.
Today’s update also included a high volume of administrative changes, with nearly 60 records related to nomenclature for works of art, collectors' pieces, and antiques (HS Chapter 97). These updates do not represent a change in duty policy.
What to watch
After a period dominated by the scheduled rollover of steel safeguards and agricultural quotas, today’s introduction of new trade defence measures marks a shift in regulatory focus. Importers in the chemicals and plastics sectors will be watching closely to see if this action against a major trading partner signals a new phase of trade remedy activity in the second half of the year.