The International Trade Commission has instituted an investigation that will lead to recommendations to the president on necessary changes to the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the U.S. to align it with amendments to the global Harmonized System. Any such modifications must ensure substantial duty rate neutrality.
The World Customs Organization administers and maintains the HS and has completed six systematic reviews of HS nomenclature since 1988. These reviews are conducted to ensure the HS is kept up to date in light of changes in technology or patterns of international trade.
The WCO is expected to publish in January 2026 recommended amendments to HS nomenclature that are anticipated to enter into force Jan. 1, 2028. The ITC expects to post these recommendations to its website, followed by its preliminary draft modifications to the HTSUS in February. Following a public comment period the ITC will finalize the necessary modifications to the HTSUS and submit a report to the president in September 2026.
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