If goods are imported from China and then exported to the UK, does the UK apply Chinese or US tariffs?

 

If goods are imported from China and then exported to the UK, does the UK apply Chinese or US tariffs?

Understanding the Journey of Goods and How Tariffs Apply

Global trade routes often involve complex shipping paths, including goods moving through multiple countries before reaching their final destination. One such scenario is when goods originate from China, arrive in the US, and are then exported to the UK. In this case, a common question arises:

Which tariffs does the UK apply—Chinese or US? 

https://www.arc-worldwide.com/cargo-service.html

Let’s break it down.

1. Country of Origin Determines Tariffs

The tariff a country like the UK imposes on imports is primarily based on the origin of the product, not necessarily the last country it transited through.

  • If a product originates in China (i.e., manufactured there), then the UK applies its import duties for Chinese goods—regardless of whether it stopped in the US.

  • The only way a product can change its “country of origin” is through substantial transformation in the intermediary country (like the US).

🔍 Example: If a Chinese phone is simply stored or repackaged in the US and then exported to the UK, it's still considered "Made in China."
✅ So the UK’s tariff schedule for China applies.

https://www.arc-worldwide.com/services.html

2. What If the Goods Are Substantially Transformed in the US?

If the goods are processed, assembled, or significantly altered in the US, their country of origin may change to the US.

  • In that case, the UK would apply its import rules and tariffs for US-made products, which might be lower or exempt under trade agreements.

  • However, simple operations like relabeling, repacking, or warehousing do not count as a transformation.

3. Tariff Implications in the US (Transit Country)

If the goods only pass through the US without being sold or consumed there, and they’re re-exported, the US tariffs don’t apply unless the goods officially enter US commerce.

  • For instance, under bonded warehousing or FTZs (Foreign Trade Zones), importers can avoid US tariffs if the goods are just passing through.

4. UK Customs Will Look at Documentation

To correctly apply tariffs, UK customs authorities will ask for:

  • Certificate of Origin

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Bill of Lading

  • Any documentation that supports the country where the product was last substantially manufactured

This helps ensure the right duty rate is charged.

Conclusion:

Goods imported from China and then exported to the UK will attract the UK’s tariff rates applicable to Chinese-origin products—unless they were substantially transformed in the US. Simply rerouting through the US doesn’t alter the country of origin or change the applicable UK tariff.https://www.arc-worldwide.com/worldwide-transport.html

🌐 Pro Tip from ChitChat Logistics:
Always consult a professional freight forwarder or customs broker to assess the origin status and optimize your duty costs. Supply chain strategy can make a huge difference in your landed cost and competitiveness.

Need help planning your China–US–UK freight chain? Let’s chat logistics! 📦✈️🚢

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