MFN Rate
The default tariff rate applied to imports from most countries under WTO rules.
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate, also called the Normal Trade Relations (NTR) rate in US law, is the baseline duty that applies to goods from any WTO member country. It is the starting point for duty calculations. Additional tariffs (Section 301, 232, IEEPA) and processing fees stack on top of this rate. Preferential trade agreements (USMCA, GSP, CPTPP) can reduce the effective rate below MFN.
Related terms
General Rate of Duty
The standard duty rate in Column 1 of the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, equivalent to the MFN rate.
Preferential Rate
A reduced duty rate available under a free trade agreement or preference program.
Section 301
Additional US tariffs on Chinese goods under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.