Internal Combustion Ind Forklift Trucks — Japan — A-588-703

An AD/CVD measure concerning internal combustion industrial forklift trucks addresses two possible trade practices: antidumping (AD), involving imports sold at less than normal value, and countervailing duties (CVD), involving benefits from foreign government subsidies. The measure generally applies to specified forklift trucks and may depend on technical features, such as the truck’s design, lifting capacity, power source, or intended industrial use. The official product description, called the scope, controls—not the title alone.

Importers, manufacturers, distributors, and users bringing covered forklifts into the United States may be affected. Duties can apply in addition to ordinary customs duties and may require cash deposits at entry, followed by later assessment. Product classification under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) helps identify potentially relevant entries, but an HTS number is not by itself proof that a product is covered or excluded. Coverage can also depend on the country of origin, exporter, manufacturer, and the precise facts of the shipment.

What to check

• Read the official scope language and compare it with the forklift’s specifications, including power source, capacity, configuration, attachments, and intended use.
• Confirm the country of origin, manufacturer, and exporter; AD/CVD treatment can vary by these parties and by the applicable proceeding.
• Review the complete HTS classification, but do not rely on the tariff number alone; check whether the product description controls coverage.
• Check current official instructions for cash-deposit requirements, exclusions, certifications, and entry documentation before importing.
• Ask a customs broker or trade counsel to evaluate borderline products and obtain a formal scope ruling when the product’s coverage is uncertain.