US looks to extend suspension of port fees on Chinese-linked vessels

The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed extending the suspension of port fees on Chinese-linked vessels until 9 January 2027.
IMAGE: Flags of the US and China. Getty Images

Under the proposed extension, core maritime transport fees and duties will remain frozen for an extra two months. The current suspension is due to expire on 9 November 2026.

The suspension commenced on 10 November 2025, after talks between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, and was meant to offer some relief to global maritime operations.

“USTR is proposing the extension to allow further negotiations with China regarding the acts, policies, and practices at issue in the investigation,” US Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy said in a statement.

USTR is seeking public comments on the proposal, with submissions due by 30 October.

“During the proposed suspension, no party would accrue liability for or be required to pay the covered maritime transport service fees or duties,” US Small Business Administration’s Office of Advocacy added.

By Aparupa Mazumder

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