The U.S. Trade Representative has confirmed that, following a bilateral agreement between the United States and China, collection of Section 301 vessel fees will be suspended for one year, starting November 10, 2025.
Key Points:
- CBP will cease fee collection related to the Section 301 maritime investigation as of November 10.
- The suspension follows a White House announcement outlining a strategic pause in trade actions targeting China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors.
- During this period, the U.S. will engage in negotiations with China under Section 301, while continuing collaborative efforts with Japan and the Republic of Korea to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
- The suspension includes:
- Duties on ship-to-shore cranes and cargo handling equipment.
- Fees on maritime transport services under Annexes I–III of the April 23 notice.
- No liabilities will accrue during the suspension period.
- The Harmonized Tariff Schedule is amended to reflect the new suspension end date: November 10, 2026.
This development marks a significant shift in U.S. trade posture and is expected to reduce operational costs and uncertainty across the shipping sector.