China’s decision to apply lower import tariff rates on selected goods from January 2026 is set to benefit a narrow but strategic segment of the textile value chain, with the focus squarely on upstream and intermediate inputs rather than finished apparel, according to a State Council announcement. The move will benefit nearly a dozen countries, including Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and Turkiye.
According to the announcement, the tariff adjustments are designed to support industrial upgrading and stabilise supply chains. Within textiles, the reductions mainly cover man-made and speciality fibres, chemical fibre filaments and yarns, and advanced textile inputs that are either in short domestic supply or essential for high-value manufacturing. Products linked to technical and functional textiles, blended yarns, and performance fabrics used in export-oriented production are set to gain the most. The scope also includes textile auxiliaries used in dyeing and finishing, as well as textile machinery components and spare parts, helping manufacturers lower operating costs.
