USTR Releases Notice of Action in 301 Maritime Investigation

Government Relations, Trade and Tariffs

U.S. Trade Representative has released a Notice of Action, Proposed Actions and Invitation for Comments in connection with the Section 301 investigation on Chinese maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding polices.

The proposed actions detailed in pages 9 to 11 of the document encompass a range of measures aimed at regulating shipping and cargo operations related to vessels connected to China. The key points are as follows:

  • Fees on Chinese Vessel Owners and Operators: A system of fees will be implemented for Chinese vessel owners and operators based on the net tonnage for each voyage to the United States. These fees will gradually increase over the coming years, creating a financial incentive for compliance.
  • Fees on Operators of Chinese-Built Ships: Like the previous measure, fees will also be imposed on operators of vessels that are built in China. These fees will be calculated based on the net tonnage or the number of containers carried, with incremental increases scheduled for future years.
  • Fees on Foreign-Built Car Carrier Vessels: Fees will apply to foreign-built car carrier vessels, with the amount determined by their cargo capacity.
  • Restrictions on LNG Transport via Foreign Vessels: There will be limited restrictions on the transportation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) using foreign-registered vessels. This approach is intended to promote the use of U.S.-built LNG vessels, enhancing domestic capacity and reducing dependency on foreign shipping options.
  • Tariffs on Equipment from China: Tariffs will be introduced on other maritime-related goods imported from China, including ship-to-shore cranes, cargo handling machines, containers, and specific chassis.

For more comprehensive details regarding the implementation, scope, and expected duration of these proposed actions, interested parties can refer to Annexes I to V in the USTR’s notice.

Additionally, the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) is seeking public input on these proposed actions. The deadline for submitting comments is May 19, 2025. To facilitate engagement, a public hearing will also be held on the same date. Those wishing to speak at the hearing must submit a request by May 8, 2025.