China Slashes Import Tariff on Computers

China lowered the tariff on computers and video camcorders brought into the country by travelers from 20 percent to 10 percent January 27, 2011, a Ministry of Finance (MOF) statement said.

Computers and video camcorders have been moved from the second category of the tariff list to the first category, the statement posted on the ministry's website said.

The circular did not specify any reason for the change in tariff.

Customs staff at Beijing Capital International Airport confirmed Friday they are implementing the new rule.

This is good news for those who buy an iPad abroad and bring it home to China, as under the new rule, the tariff paid on iPads will range from 300 to 500 yuan.

In the United States or Hong Kong, iPads cost the equivalent of 3,000 to 4,500 yuan.