US Tariffs on Notebooks: China vs Vietnam
If you’re importing notebooks into the United States, recent tariff changes may affect what you actually pay.
Notebooks and journals fall under HS Code 482010, which sits within Chapter 48 (paper products and stationery). Unlike books (Chapter 49), which are treated as “informational materials” and are largely tariff-exempt, stationery products are subject to additional import duties.
For U.S. buyers sourcing notebooks, the country of manufacture can make a significant difference to the final landed cost.
Temporary Tariffs Introduced in 2026
Following legal challenges to earlier tariffs, the U.S. government introduced a temporary import surcharge under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974.
Key details:
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Current rate: 10%
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Effective date: February 24, 2026
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Duration: Up to 150 days (until July 24, 2026)
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Scope: Applies to most imported goods, including stationery products.
Although a 15% rate was discussed, the current applied rate remains 10% as of mid-March 2026.
What Notebook Buyers Pay
Notebook imports normally carry 0% base duty, but additional tariffs can apply depending on origin.
Notebooks from Vietnam
| Tariff Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Base duty | 0% |
| Section 122 tariff | 10% |
| Total tariff | 10% |
Notebooks from China
Chinese stationery products are also subject to Section 301 tariffs, which add an additional layer of duty.
| Tariff Type | Rate |
|---|---|
| Base duty | 0% |
| Section 122 tariff | 10% |
| Section 301 tariff | 25% |
| Total tariff | 35% |
What This Means in Practice
For a $100,000 notebook order:
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Vietnam: $10,000 import duty
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China: $35,000 import duty
That’s a $25,000 difference purely from tariffs.
For companies importing large notebook volumes, this can significantly affect landed costs.
What Buyers Are Doing
Many brands are responding by diversifying their supply chains:
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China remains the most developed printing manufacturing base, with strong capabilities for complex binding and specialty finishing.
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Vietnam is becoming a practical alternative for notebook production where tariff savings are a priority.
For many buyers today, the decision is not simply China or Vietnam — but choosing the right location depending on cost structure, product complexity, and current trade policy.
At Sunny Industry Group, we help clients produce notebooks through our manufacturing network in both China and Vietnam, allowing buyers to balance cost, capability, and supply chain flexibility.