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The United States has extended its suspension of maritime fees and specified cargo equipment tariffs through January 9, 2027, giving shipping businesses two more months of relief while negotiations with China continue.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative said the extension took effect November 9, according to a notice published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, November 10. The suspension runs through 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 9.
The decision postpones charges affecting Chinese-owned or operated ships, qualifying Chinese-built vessels and foreign-built vehicle carriers. Its reach therefore extends beyond Chinese shipping companies to international operators serving U.S. ports.
China Extends Its Own Suspension
China’s Ministry of Transport separately announced on November 9 that it would continue suspending special port fees on U.S.-linked vessels until January 10, 2027.
Beijing also extended the suspension of an investigation into the effects on the security and development interests of its shipping, shipbuilding and related supply chains. The ministry said the decision implemented the outcome of the eighth round of bilateral economic and trade talks and had State Council approval.
The U.S. measures stem from a Section 301 investigation under the Trade Act of 1974 into China’s targeting of the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors.
Washington’s original suspension began November 10, 2025, following a trade agreement announced by President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. It was scheduled to expire after November 9, 2026.
Potential Charges Depend on Vessel Category
The suspended fees are not a uniform charge on every Chinese-built vessel or every individual port call.
Under the published schedule for Chinese-owned or operated vessels, the initial rate was $50 per net ton from October 14, 2025, rising to $80 from April 17, 2026. For a qualifying vessel of 50,000 net tons, those rates imply $2.5 million and $4 million respectively.
The framework limits collection to five assessments per vessel annually. Separate rules govern Chinese-built vessels operated by non-Chinese operators, including capacity thresholds and exemptions for certain services. Net tonnage measures internal vessel capacity rather than cargo weight.
Industry Remains Divided Over Relief
USTR received approximately 60 unique comments on the extension. Supporters cited shipping costs, commercial disruption and the need for more negotiating time. Opponents argued that the measures would encourage investment in American shipbuilding and related manufacturing.
Some respondents sought permanent relief for vehicle carriers. Others wanted equipment tariffs considered separately from vessel fees.
The extension also covers the specified additional duties on Chinese ship-to-shore cranes and other cargo handling equipment. USTR said no liability for the covered fees or duties accrues during the suspension.
The agency will assess whether another extension or further action is appropriate before the January 10 deadline.
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