China has created a secret list of US goods

Previously, China has already granted duty exemptions for certain goods, in particular some pharmaceuticals, microchips and aircraft engines, Reuters reported.

Authorities have asked companies to specify critical goods they would like to import duty-free. However, the very existence of the so-called “white list” has not been previously disclosed.

This non-public approach allows Beijing, which has repeatedly said it is ready to fight to the end until the U.S. lifts its 145 percent duties, to maintain its public rhetoric of toughness while actually making concessions.

Companies have been secretly notified by authorities that there is a list of product lines that are exempt from duty.

A spokesman for a pharmaceutical company that sells U.S. drugs in China said they were informed by authorities in Shanghai's Pudong district. The company had previously lobbied for exemptions because it uses American technology in its products.

Another source said that some companies were advised to contact the authorities themselves to find out whether their goods could qualify for duty exemption.

Photo: finance.ua.