US import surcharges in effect through July 2026, WTO notification filed
The United States has notified the WTO of new import surcharges that took effect 24 February 2026 to address balance-of-payments deficits. The surcharges are set to expire 24 July 2026 unless Congress extends them. The US committed to WTO consultations on the measure, which affects all importers moving goods into the US market during this five-month window.
# US Import Surcharges Notified to WTO
On 5 May 2026, the United States notified the WTO Committee on Balance-of-Payments Restrictions of new import surcharges aimed at addressing the country's serious balance-of-payments deficits. The surcharges became effective 24 February 2026 and are scheduled to expire 24 July 2026, unless extended by an act of Congress.
"The United States said the surcharges took effect on 24 February 2026 and will expire on 24 July 2026, unless extended by an act of Congress." — WTO Committee on Balance-of-Payments Restrictions, 5 May 2026
This is a broad-based trade remedy designed to narrow the US trade deficit. Unlike targeted anti-dumping or safeguard duties, balance-of-payments surcharges typically apply across multiple product categories and countries, affecting importers across all sectors.
WTO members acknowledged the transparency of the US notification and indicated willingness to engage in formal consultations as required under WTO rules. Balance-of-payments safeguards are permitted under GATT Article XII, though they remain subject to WTO dispute settlement and must be temporary in nature.
The five-month window (24 February to 24 July 2026) creates a time-bound duty environment. Congressional action would be required for any extension beyond July 2026. During the consultation phase, the WTO membership will examine the justification for the measures and assess their consistency with US obligations.
What this means for shippers
All importers into the US must apply these surcharges to shipments arriving between 24 February and 24 July 2026. Calculate total landed cost immediately using current duty rates plus the surcharge amount—your freight forwarder or customs broker should confirm the surcharge percentage and HS scope. If Congress extends the measure, duties will remain elevated; if not, surcharges expire 24 July. Lock in pricing with suppliers now and monitor congressional action for any extension notice. Verify exact surcharge rates with US Customs & Border Protection and rebuild your cost models for all inbound shipments during this window.
