United StatesChina
USTR Proposes Two-Month Extension of Section 301 China Maritime Action Suspension to 9 January 2027
It is a proposal only. Comments are due 30 October 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time; the current suspension runs through 9 November 2026.
What changed
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed, but not yet decided, a further suspension of the Section 301 action on China's targeting of the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding sectors. According to a notice scheduled for publication in the Federal Register on 26 October 2026, the Trade Representative "is proposing to modify the action taken in this investigation to further suspend that action for two months, through January 9, 2027."
The current one-year suspension runs through 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on 9 November 2026. USTR is requesting comments "regarding the proposal to suspend the responsive actions from 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time on November 10, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 9, 2027."
What the proposal would cover
The notice says that during the proposed suspension period no party would accrue liability for or be required to pay the fees on maritime transport services under Annexes I, II or III of the 23 April 2025 notice, as modified on 16 October 2025, or the duties in Annex V.A of the 16 October 2025 notice. USTR says the proposal is intended to allow further negotiation with China.
Who it affects
Ocean carriers and vessel operators, shippers and importers whose costs could be affected by the maritime services fees, and importers of goods covered by the Annex V.A duties.
Key date
"October 30, 2026, 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time: To be assured of consideration, submit written comments regarding the proposed modification of the action by this date." This is 02:30 IST on 31 October. No final decision has been announced.
What exporters and importers should do
- If the fees or duties affect you, consider submitting comments under docket USTR-2026-0694 at comments.ustr.gov before the deadline.
- Do not assume the suspension is extended until USTR publishes a final decision. Plan for both outcomes for shipments around 10 November 2026.
