Section 301 – Seasonal and Perishable Agricultural Products (Petition)

A Section 301 measure is a US trade action that may address an act, policy, or practice of a foreign government considered unfair or harmful to US commerce. “Seasonal and Perishable Agricultural Products (Petition)” describes a petition-based trade matter involving agricultural goods whose market conditions can change by season and whose shelf life may be limited. A petition is a formal request for government action; it is not, by itself, proof that an additional duty or other remedy applies.

This type of matter typically concerns importers, growers, produce distributors, retailers, and food-service businesses handling covered agricultural products. It matters because a Section 301 proceeding can potentially lead to an additional duty, import restriction, or another trade remedy, depending on the official decision. Importers should distinguish the proceeding or petition from the final measure and verify whether their specific product, origin, tariff classification, and entry timing are covered.

What to check

• Check the official measure status to determine whether the item is only part of a petition or is subject to a final trade remedy.
• Confirm the product’s Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification, including any statistical suffix, with the product’s actual composition and form.
• Verify the country of origin and review any origin rules or exclusions stated in the official notice.
• Check the effective dates, entry or withdrawal requirements, and any product-specific exclusions in the controlling government sources.
• Ask a customs broker or trade counsel to review uncertain classifications, agricultural descriptions, and Section 301 applicability before entry.