USTR requests comments on proposed Section 301 actions concerning China’s maritime and shipbuilding practices

The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has posted on its website a notice announcing it is requesting public comments on proposed Section 301 actions aimed at eliminating China's acts, policies, and practices that target the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors for dominance.

According to the USTR release (February 21, 2025), the USTR proposes imposing fees and restrictions on international maritime transport services related to Chinese ship operators and Chinese-built ships and promoting U.S. goods transport on U.S. vessels.

Key dates include:

• February 21, 2025: Comment period opens.
• March 10, 2025: Deadline to submit requests to appear at the hearing and a summary of testimony.
• March 24, 2025: Deadline to submit written comments. A public hearing will be held at 10:00 AM in the main hearing room of the U.S. International Trade Commission.

Background

Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 allows the United States to address unfair foreign practices affecting U.S. commerce. On March 12, 2024, five national labor unions filed a petition requesting an investigation into China's practices in these sectors. The USTR initiated an investigation and, after consultations with China and reviewing public comments, determined the practices were actionable under the Trade Act.