🇨🇳 China vs 🇯🇵 Japan Tariffs — Import Duty Comparison (2026)

🇨🇳

China

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 30125-100%

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementNone

Trade Volume$575B

Base Effective Rate35%

🇯🇵

Japan

Section 122 Rate10%

Section 301N/A

Section 232 (Metals)50%

Trade AgreementNone

Trade Volume$218B

Base Effective Rate10%

Product Overlap

Both countries export these product categories to the US:

MachineryPlasticsIron and steelAuto parts

🇨🇳 China Advantages

+Higher US trade volume ($575B vs $218B)
+Unique export categories: Electronics, Furniture, Toys

🇯🇵 Japan Advantages

+Lower overall tariff rate (10% vs 35%)
+Not subject to Section 301 tariffs (China-specific)
+Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Electrical machinery, Medical instruments

Comparing import tariffs between China and Japan reveals key differences that can significantly impact landed costs for US importers.

Japan has a lower effective tariff rate (10%) compared to China (35%), a difference of 25%.

Both countries export Machinery, Plastics, Iron and steel, Auto parts to the United States, creating direct competition in these sectors.

In terms of trade volume, China accounts for approximately $575B in bilateral trade with the US, exceeding Japan's $218B.

Both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026, following the Supreme Court's ruling striking down IEEPA tariffs. This rate expires approximately July 24, 2026 unless Congress extends it.

China's advantages include: Higher US trade volume ($575B vs $218B); Unique export categories: Electronics, Furniture, Toys. Japan's advantages include: Lower overall tariff rate (10% vs 35%); Not subject to Section 301 tariffs (China-specific); Unique export categories: Motor vehicles, Electrical machinery, Medical instruments.

For most product categories, Japan currently offers lower import costs due to its tariff advantage. However, importers should consider factors beyond tariffs including shipping costs, lead times, quality standards, and supply chain reliability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has lower tariffs — China or Japan?

Japan has a lower effective tariff rate (10% vs 35%). Section 301 tariffs on China account for the difference.

Should I switch sourcing from China to Japan?

The decision depends on more than tariff rates. Consider total landed cost (shipping, insurance, customs fees), lead times, quality standards, minimum order quantities, and supply chain reliability. The 25% tariff difference is significant but not the only factor.

Do both China and Japan face the same Section 122 tariff?

Yes, both countries are subject to the 10% Section 122 tariff imposed on February 24, 2026. This flat rate replaced the variable IEEPA tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court. It expires approximately July 24, 2026. However, China faces additional Section 301 tariffs.

What products overlap between China and Japan exports to the US?

Both countries export Machinery, Plastics, Iron and steel to the US. China has total bilateral trade of ~$575B while Japan has ~$218B.