USTR initiated a Section 301 investigation on April 12, 2019 concerning EU and certain EU-member-State subsidies to the large civil aircraft industry.

A Section 301 investigation is a U.S. trade-law process used to examine whether a foreign government’s acts, policies, or practices are unreasonable, discriminatory, or burden U.S. commerce. The investigation may lead to a trade measure, such as additional duties or other restrictions, but an investigation by itself does not necessarily impose an extra charge.

This matter concerns alleged European Union and certain member-state subsidies connected with the large civil aircraft industry. It may affect importers of covered aircraft, parts, components, or other specifically listed products, depending on the final scope of the measure. Importers must distinguish the product’s tariff classification, country of origin, and any applicable exclusions or special rules; a customs broker or trade counsel may be needed for difficult classification or origin questions.

What to check

• Check the official measure notice and product list to determine whether the exact merchandise is covered, rather than relying only on a broad industry description.
• Confirm the HTSUS classification, including the complete tariff number and any product descriptions or technical qualifications used in the measure.
• Verify country of origin and substantial-transformation facts; the shipping country is not always the legal origin.
• Check whether exclusions, amendments, quota rules, or other trade remedies apply, and review their stated scope and validity before entry.
• Ask a customs broker or trade counsel to review uncertain aircraft or aircraft-part classifications and the importer’s entry and documentation responsibilities.