Forced-labor Section 301 — Argentina — 10% additional duty

A Section 301 measure is a U.S. trade action addressing certain foreign trade practices that are considered unfair or harmful to U.S. commerce. An “additional duty” is charged on top of the ordinary customs duty and other applicable import charges. The measure’s title may identify a country, product coverage, or policy concern, but the official legal notice and tariff instructions control what actually applies.

This type of measure typically affects commercial imports that meet both the specified country-of-origin rules and the listed HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States) product classifications. It matters because an importer may owe extra duty, must report the measure using the correct tariff provisions, and remains responsible for accurate entry data. If the description refers to forced labor, also check whether a separate forced-labor rule or detention process—such as one administered under Section 307—could apply; Section 301 and forced-labor enforcement are different legal mechanisms.

What to check

• Confirm the product’s tariff classification (HTSUS subheading) and country of origin; do not rely only on the shipping country or a product description.
• Read the official measure notice, tariff instructions, and any exclusions to verify the covered products, effective treatment, and reporting requirements.
• Check whether the additional duty is assessed in addition to ordinary duty and other measures, and review applicable duty-stacking or exemption rules.
• Keep records supporting classification, origin, manufacturing steps, and supplier statements in case U.S. Customs and Border Protection requests substantiation.
• Ask a licensed customs broker or trade specialist to review uncertain classifications, origin determinations, exclusions, or possible Section 307 forced-labor issues.