Selling on Amazon US from China: Complete Tax & Compliance Guide
Updated 2026-08-17
Chinese sellers on Amazon US must handle: (1) Import duties and customs clearance, (2) Sales tax collection via marketplace facilitator laws, (3) Possible income tax obligations if operating through a US entity. Amazon collects sales tax in all states with sales tax, but sellers using FBA must register in states where inventory is stored.
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Primary sources
This page is grounded in the primary materials below. Rules change, so open the source and confirm the current version before acting.
FAQ
Do I need to collect sales tax when selling on Amazon US?+
Amazon acts as a marketplace facilitator and collects sales tax on behalf of third-party sellers in all US states with sales tax. However, if you use FBA, you may need to register and file returns in states where your inventory is stored.
What customs duties apply to goods imported from China?+
US customs duties vary by product (HTS code). Section 301 tariffs add 7.5-25% on most Chinese goods. The de minimis threshold is $800 per shipment. Standard MFN rates also apply based on product classification.
Do I need a US business entity?+
Not strictly required for selling on Amazon, but a US LLC can simplify tax compliance, open US bank accounts, and provide liability protection. Many Chinese sellers use a US LLC with an EIN. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
What is the FBA sales tax nexus?+
Storing inventory in Amazon FBA warehouses creates physical nexus in those states. You must register for sales tax permits and file returns in each state where FBA inventory is located, even though Amazon collects the tax.
How does Section 321 de minimis apply to FBA shipments?+
Section 321 allows imports valued at $800 or less per shipment per consignee to enter the US duty-free and tax-free. For FBA sellers, each shipment to an Amazon warehouse counts as one entry. If your shipment to a single Amazon FC is under $800, it qualifies for Section 321 duty-free treatment. However, Section 301 tariffs on Chinese goods do NOT qualify for Section 321 exemption — those goods are still subject to the additional 7.5-25% tariff regardless of value. Also, if you consolidate multiple orders into one shipment exceeding $800 to the same consignee, the entire shipment loses de minimis eligibility.
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US Customs Duties and Tariffs for Cross-Border Sellers: Rates, Classification and De Minimis Rules
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