HSU 2618 implements HTS updates to apply new Section 232 duties on patented pharmaceutical articles and ingredients effective July 31, 2026.

CBP has released Harmonized System Update (HSU) 2618, created July 31, 2026, which contains 174 harmonized tariff records and 591 ABI records. This HSU implements the HTS changes necessary to apply new Section 232 duties on imports of patented pharmaceutical articles and ingredients. The Section 232 duties for these products are effective July 31, 2026.

For customs brokers and trade compliance teams, this is a direct change to how patented pharmaceutical products must be classified and how duties are calculated. The updated HTS records will likely include new or revised tariff lines and associated Chapter 99/Section 232 provisions that must be declared on entry summaries. While this CSMS does not list specific HTS numbers or duty rates, it confirms that the structural HTS and ABI changes are now live and must be used for entries filed on or after the effective date.

Immediate steps include: (1) retrieving the detailed HSU 2618 data through ACE, ABI, or your HTS data provider; (2) identifying which of your imported patented pharmaceutical articles and ingredients map to the updated tariff records; (3) updating internal classification tools, broker systems, and product master data to reflect the new HTS and any required Section 232/Chapter 99 lines; and (4) ensuring that entries for covered products dated July 31, 2026, and forward are filed using the updated structure so that Section 232 duties are properly assessed.

Importers should be advised that additional Section 232 duties will now apply to affected patented pharmaceutical products, potentially increasing landed cost. Brokers should consult CSMS #69395344 for more detailed information on the scope and rates of the Section 232 pharmaceutical duties and direct any technical HTS questions to traderemedy@cbp.dhs.gov or HTSAdmin@cbp.dhs.gov as indicated in the bulletin.