May 2026 marks a密集调整期 for global trade rules - US tariffs, EU carbon tariffs, India tariffs, and cross-border e-commerce tax rebates all tightening simultaneously. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of four major foreign trade policy changes.
I. US Section 232 Tariffs: Rate Restructuring
Since April 6, US Section 232 tariffs have entered a new adjustment cycle, focusing on steel, aluminum, and derivative products.
| Product Category | New Rate | Typical Products |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Steel/Aluminum | 50% | Steel plates, Aluminum ingots, Steel pipes |
| Some Derivatives | 25% | Hardware, Fasteners, Precision parts |
| Some Industrial Equipment | 10% | Mechanical parts, Tools |
Key Issue: The same product, classified under different codes, may face tax rates differing by 3x or more.
II. EU CBAM Carbon Tariffs: Entering Third Phase
The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) officially enters its third phase - upgrading from simple quarterly reporting to data verification + third-party verification.
Critical Impact: From 2026, if carbon emission data is missing or fails verification, goods cannot be cleared in the EU!
III. 9810 "Immediate Tax Rebate on Departure"
Cross-border e-commerce export 9810 model (cross-border e-commerce export overseas warehouse) officially launches the "immediate tax rebate on departure" policy.
Four Red Lines:
- HWC-YT code must be filled
- Retain supporting materials within 15 days
- "Three-flow consistency"
- Do not delay annual settlement
IV. Africa Zero Tariff New Opportunities
Starting May 1, 2026, China implements zero tariffs for all 53 African diplomatic nations! China-Africa trade volume grew 23.7% YoY in Q1.
Business opportunities: African agricultural products (nuts, coffee, cocoa), mineral resources, manufacturing raw materials.
