ShorelineHudson’s live broadcast on October 31st — “Navigating U.S. Section 301 ‘China-Linked’ Port Fees” — took place when media reports surfaced suggesting a potential one-year suspension of the newly introduced U.S. port-fee regime.During the session, Captain Thomas Brown and Andrew Baskin, ShorelineHudson’s Global Policy Advisor, explored the origins, scope, and operational implications of the Section 301 fees while emphasizing that, despite press speculation, no formal U.S. Government notice confirming a suspension has yet been issued.
“Until the policy is officially clarified, owners and operators should remain fully prepared to demonstrate compliance,” Mr. Baskin advised, noting that Customs and Border Protection remains obliged to collect the fees under current U.S. law.
The discussion highlighted continuing uncertainty around the timing, scope, and potential refund provisions associated with any suspension and the need for shipowners, operators, and managers to maintain clear documentation of ownership, construction, and operational control to avoid misapplication or enforcement delays at U.S. ports.
ShorelineHudson encourages clients to stay vigilant and to contact our team with any questions or for assistance in interpreting their exposure under the current regime.
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Stay tuned for further developments — follow our daily news bulletin, website, and LinkedIn channels for the latest verified updates as Washington provides formal direction on the suspension’s terms.