USTR Grants Element Electronics Tariff Exclusions on LCD Components From China

Element Electronics landed exclusions Tuesday from the List 4A Section 301 tariffs on two classifications of LCD components it sources from China to assemble finished TVs in South Carolina for sale through Walmart and other big-box retailers (see 1906060001). The exemptions, for which Element applied in November, were for LCD main board assemblies, imported under the 8529.90.13.00 subheading, and panel assembly modules, sourced under the 9013.80.90.00 classification. Element’s filing for an 8529.90.13.00 exemption was the only request in that classification, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative public docket shows. Its request for a 9013.80.90.00 exclusion was one of 12 in that category. The exclusions are retroactive to Sept. 1 when the List 4A tariffs took effect and will remain active through Sept. 1. In seeking the exclusions, Element told USTR it was unable to source the components from anywhere but China. Element didn't comment Tuesday.