WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) sent a letter to Ambassador Katherine Tai reiterating the urgent need to establish a significantly improved exclusion process for imports from China subject to tariffs that removes the significant burden and costs placed on business owners, farmers, and families in North Carolina. The letter follows Senator Tillis calling on the Administration to establish a more comprehensive exclusion process last month. 

“…Restarting a full and comprehensive exclusion process will allow the U.S. to apply pressure on China and combat their unfair trade practices while concurrently allowing our businesses to receive relief that they desperately need and manage their bottom line and with certainty,” wrote Senator Tillis. “I have heard from countless businesses in North Carolina—many of which were granted an exclusion previously—that were forced to pay tariffs for approximately ten months last year without reason. There is little reason to charge additional tariffs on covered products during the months when no exclusion process existed.” 

“Retroactivity for those granted exclusions will help to make struggling businesses in North Carolina whole and keep them competitive, but that alone will not give them adequate certainty to operate their business and plan for the future,” Senator Tillis continued. “I share your desire and commitment in holding China accountable for its unfair practices and I look forward to working with you and your team to ensure an expanded exclusion process is consistent with U.S. economic and national security objectives while allowing our businesses to grow and thrive.”

Read the full letter HERE. 

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