Wind Turbine Component Imports

Wind turbine component imports – towers, nacelles, blades, generators – face active U.S. AD/CVD orders on specific origins (China, Vietnam, Korea, India, Spain), Section 232 steel derivative scope on tower steel, plus Section 122 on most non-USMCA imports. Effective rates often 25-100%+ on covered combinations.

This guide covers U.S. import tariff and compliance for wind turbine components.

For SMB importers in this category, the practical questions are HTS classification, applicable Section 232/301/122 stacks, FTA opportunities, and regulatory overlay (FDA/USDA/EPA/CPSC where relevant).

HTS classification basics

Towers under HTS 7308.20 (steel structures); nacelles classified by function (often 8412.80 or 8503.00); blades under 8503.00. Specific subheadings determine scope coverage.

Tariff stack and rates

AD/CVD orders on wind towers from China, Vietnam, Korea, India, Spain. Section 232 steel on tower steel. Section 122 (15%) on most non-USMCA imports.

Country of origin considerations

Component origin determines AD/CVD coverage. Towers manufactured in countries subject to AD/CVD orders pay the order rate plus standard tariffs.

Regulatory overlay

OSHA and DOE regulations on wind equipment. Importer responsibility for component-level compliance.

Mitigation opportunities

Scope rulings for components at boundary. Origin shifts to non-AD/CVD countries. USMCA qualification on Mexican-produced components.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical effective duty rate?

Depends on origin and HTS classification. China-origin: 22-42% effective when Section 301 + Section 122 stack. USMCA-qualifying Mexican production: often 0-3%. Vietnam, India, Korea: 15-17% with Section 122.

Can I qualify under USMCA?

Possible if production occurs in U.S., Mexico, or Canada and meets rules of origin (typically 60% RVC under transaction value or 50% net cost). USMCA-qualifying goods are exempt from Section 122.

Are IEEPA refunds available?

Yes – for entries between April 5, 2025 and February 24, 2026 that paid IEEPA duty. Filed through CBP’s CAPE portal. We file claims on contingency for filings above $50k.

What about Section 232 exposure?

Specific to product type. Steel and aluminum derivatives expansion brought some downstream products into scope. Component-level analysis identifies actual coverage.

How do you help with this category?

Tariff exposure assessment ($2,500-$7,500), classification audit, USMCA qualification, refund recovery, audit response. Independent of any customs brokerage.