U.S. Commerce Department Finds Circumvention of Duties on Chinese Engines
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The U.S. Department of Commerce has made a preliminary decision about certain engines from China. They found that two models of engines made by Chongqing Zongshen General Power Machine Co., Ltd. are being used to avoid duties. These models are the 5C65M0 and the BC70M0. The engines were shipped from China to the U.S. This decision was reported in the Federal Register on May 18, 2026.
The engines are known as small vertical shaft engines. They are between 99cc and 225cc in size. The Department of Commerce says these engines are “later-developed merchandise.” This means they were made to avoid antidumping and countervailing duties. These duties are taxes put on goods sold below fair price to protect U.S. industries.
The inquiry started because of a request from Briggs & Stratton, LLC, a U.S. company. They asked the Department of Commerce to investigate on June 18, 2025. The engines entered the U.S. market between January 1, 2018, and July 11, 2025.
During a government shutdown, the investigation faced delays. On November 14, 2025, all deadlines were extended because of this. Another delay happened on November 24, 2025, due to document backlogs. Additional extensions were announced in January and May 2026.
The Department of Commerce has started steps to handle this issue. They plan to request Customs and Border Protection to keep stopping entry of these engine models. They will also ask for cash deposits based on duties for these engines that were already in place for Zongshen.
There is a chance for public comments on this decision. Written opinions can be submitted within two weeks of the notice being published. Others can respond to these comments within a week. Those who want a hearing can request it within 30 days of the notice.
Finally, the Department will notify the International Trade Commission about the finding. This body might review if the decision affects U.S. industries badly. They will have 60 days to give their advice.
The decision was made by Christopher Abbott from the International Trade Administration on May 12, 2026. For any questions, contact Zachary Shaykin at the Department of Commerce.
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