Supply Chain Research

China’s State Council has agreed to cut import duties on four major consumer products groups. Full details are not yet available though the move is consistent with previous commitments from President Xi. Imports of the products covered surged 31% higher in the three months to February 28 on a year earlier to reach $21 billion. The cut in duties will cap inflation and improve consumers’ incomes. The political significance of the timing is notable given Commerce Secretary Ross’s trade mission to China on behalf of President Trump starts on June 2. Yet, the impact on America of these cuts i...