What are sunset terms in tariff law?

• A. Time-bound validity periods for measures, after which they may be reviewed, extended, or terminated
• B. The expiration of all tariffs globally
• C. A mechanism for automatically increasing duties over time
• D. A requirement to sunset all imports during a review

Answer: (A)

Sunset terms are time-bound expiry provisions attached to tariff measures, requiring a formal review before the expiry date to decide whether to continue, modify, or terminate the measure. This makes trade protections temporary and subject to periodic reassessment, ensuring they reflect current conditions and comply with trade obligations. The expiry signals a scheduled check rather than a blanket end to all tariffs, an automatic rise in duties, or a mandate to sunset all imports; it’s a built-in deadline and review trigger for each specific measure.