Appliance manufacturer Whirlpool (WHR.US) has alleged that its overseas competitors may be circumventing U.S. tariffs by undervaluing the declared worth of imported goods. According to Whirlpool, federal data compiled from import documentation indicates that since June, the declared values for certain household appliances have dropped substantially, which would result in reduced tariff payments.

Reports show that garbage disposals imported from China had an average declared value of $21 during January through May, but this figure fell to $9 in June and dropped below $8 in July. Gas stoves imported from Thailand saw their declared values decline by more than half to $175, while washing machines from South Korea plummeted from a declared value of $838 to just $73.

Nevertheless, Whirlpool noted that these appliances, which are subject to tariff rates ranging from 13% to 60%, have not experienced corresponding decreases in retail pricing. The company stated it is cross-referencing this data with its knowledge of competitors' manufacturing facilities to identify companies that may be engaging in the practice of undervaluing import declarations. These companies include Samsung, LG, and GE Appliances.

Samsung declined to comment on these allegations. LG stated that it remains committed to complying with all U.S. laws. GE Appliances characterized these accusations as inaccurate.

Furthermore, Whirlpool indicated that it has expressed concerns about this matter to U.S. Customs and Border Protection as well as relevant departments within the Trump administration, though it has not yet filed a formal complaint.