Column 2 rates of duty apply to which type of countries?

Column 2 rates of duty apply to countries that do not engage in normal trade relations with the U.S. These rates are generally higher and are imposed on countries that are not granted the same trade privileges as those with normal trade relations.

Normal trade relations (NTR), formerly referred to as Most Favored Nation (MFN) status, allows for lower tariff rates and more favorable trade terms. When a country does not qualify for NTR status, it falls under the provisions that can impose higher tariffs or duties. This is often due to factors such as a country’s trade practices, economic policies, or adherence to international agreements.

Thus, understanding that Column 2 rates of duty represent the higher tariffs applied to countries lacking NTR status clarifies why the correct answer pertains specifically to those countries not engaging in normal trade relations with the U.S.