CHINA has introduced several new import and export tariff categories related to robots to better support trade in high‑tech products. The new categories took effect on Jan. 1.

Under the latest tariff adjustment plan released by the Customs Tariff Commission of the State Council, a new tariff category for intelligent bionic robots has been added. It carries a most‑favored‑nation (MFN) rate of 0% and a general rate of 30%. Two additional categories for different types of cleaning robots have also been established, with MFN rates of 8% and 0% and general rates of 130% and 30%, respectively.

The new robot‑related tariff items are intended to help companies and industries track trade data more accurately, analyze overseas market trends and develop effective strategies, said Li Yanxia, chief engineer of the China Machinery Industry Federation, in an interview with state broadcaster China Central Television.

To support technological development, the circular economy and the forest‑floor economy, the commission said China will also create tariff categories for bionic robots, bio‑aviation kerosene, forest‑grown ginseng and other products. After the adjustments, the total number of tariff items in China will rise to 8,972.

The plan defines intelligent bionic robots as autonomous or semi‑autonomous machines that closely mimic humans or animals in appearance, structure or function. These robots perceive their environment using devices such as cameras, sensors and LiDAR, and rely on artificial intelligence, machine learning and computer vision to navigate and avoid obstacles. Some models also integrate natural language processing and affective computing to communicate with and respond to humans.

In addition, to support industrial upgrading and green transformation, China plans to apply provisional import tariffs lower than the MFN rate on 935 items. These include key components such as CNC hydraulic press cushions and specialized composite connectors, as well as resource‑based items like recycled black powder for lithium‑ion batteries and unroasted pyrite, the plan said.(SD-Agencies)