Update on USTR - US to implement substantial fees on vessels calling at US ports

On 21 February 2025, the Office of the United States Trade Representative ("USTR") published its proposals to address what it considers the harm to the US incurred as a result of China's support to the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors. These proposals include the imposition of significant additional fees on Chinese-owned, -operated and/or - built vessels calling at US ports.

On 17 April, the USTR issued a detailed Notice of Action and Proposed Action (the "Notice"). The new proposals differ significantly from the original proposals, albeit there still remains some uncertainty as to the scope and implementation of the proposals.

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