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ChinaElectric Vehicle Batteries (Lithium-Ion)2026 Rates

US Tariff on EV Batteries from China 2026

EV lithium-ion batteries (HTS 8507.60) from China face a 100% Section 301 tariff effective January 1, 2026, increased from 25% in 2024. This was announced in the USTR four-year Section 301 review and is intended to protect domestic battery manufacturing. The 100% rate makes Chinese EV batteries economically non-viable for most US applications.

Key figures at a glance
Product
Electric Vehicle Batteries (Lithium-Ion)
Origin country
China
Typical buyer
EV manufacturers, battery module importers, energy storage companies
HTS hint
HTS 8507.60 (lithium-ion batteries), 8507.80 (other batteries), 8540 (battery cells)
HTS classification & lookup

Applicable HTS range: HTS 8507.60 (lithium-ion batteries), 8507.80 (other batteries), 8540 (battery cells)

The 100% rate applies to the customs value (CIF or FOB depending on origin). For IRA tax credit eligibility, separately verify FEOC (Foreign Entity of Concern) restrictions that prohibit Chinese battery content.

Source: USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, 2026 Revision 2 — hts.usitc.gov

Compliance risk notes
  • 1IRA Clean Vehicle Tax Credit (45V / 30D) separately prohibits vehicles containing FEOC-sourced battery components — the tariff and the IRA restriction are independent and both apply.
  • 2Battery modules containing Chinese cells but assembled in a third country may still face origin scrutiny — substantial transformation rules apply to battery assembly.
  • 3Section 301 100% rate applies per the USTR action effective 2026; combined with any IEEPA reciprocal tariffs, the total could exceed 145%.
  • 4Export controls on battery manufacturing equipment and precursor chemicals (lithium, cobalt, graphite) from China create supply chain disruption risk beyond tariffs alone.
  • 5Non-EV lithium-ion batteries (HTS 8507.60 for laptops, phones) face a lower rate (7.5%) — ensure correct classification for EV vs. non-EV applications.
FAQ: What is the tariff on EV batteries imported from China?

What is the tariff on EV battery cells vs. battery packs from China?

Battery cells (HTS 8507.60.00.20) and battery modules/packs (8507.60.00.40) from China both face the 100% Section 301 rate effective 2026. There is no distinction between cells and assembled packs for tariff purposes, though IRA FEOC rules have different component-level tracking requirements.

Can I import Chinese battery components through South Korea or Japan to avoid the tariff?

No — if the battery cells are of Chinese origin and are not substantially transformed in the third country, they retain Chinese origin and face the full 100% rate. CBP has specific guidance on battery substantial transformation; simply assembling Chinese cells into a module in a third country generally does not change origin.

Are solid-state batteries from China subject to the same 100% tariff?

As of 2026, commercial solid-state batteries are classified under HTS 8507.80 (other batteries), not 8507.60. The Section 301 action specifically targets HTS 8507.60 (lithium-ion). Verify the applicable rate for 8507.80 — it may face a different Section 301 rate or only MFN duties.

Calculate your exact landed cost

This page provides a research overview. For a precise tariff breakdown — including Section 301, Section 232, antidumping, and Merchandise Processing Fee — use the full calculator with your exact HTS code and shipment value.

Disclaimer: Informational estimates based on USITC HTS data, USTR Section 301 schedules, and public CBP ADD/CVD records as of 2026. Not legal or customs brokerage advice.

Verify all rates with a licensed customs broker before making import decisions.