US-China Port Fee Truce: One-Year Suspension Commencing 10 November 2025

The deal was confirmed following trade discussions between U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in the Republic of Korea. As per the White House Fact Sheet released on 1 November 2025, the United States will suspend for one year the implementation of measures under Section 301, which targeted China’s maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. In response, China will also suspend its special port fees on U.S.-linked vessels for the same duration.

This mutual suspension is expected to begin with the U.S. implementing its suspension first, followed by reciprocal action from China. The decision marks a temporary pause in the long-standing trade frictions affecting global shipping and logistics operations.

Awaiting Clarifications and Next Steps

Despite the announcement, several details remain uncertain. Authorities have yet to confirm whether port fees will still apply in the period leading up to 10 November 2025, or if refunds will be issued for fees already paid. Reports suggest that some ship operators are consulting legal experts in the U.S. to seek guidance on these interim issues.
Members and shipping companies have been advised to contact the US-China Tariffs team or seek legal assistance to understand how the suspension will affect their operations during this transition period.

The one-year suspension of port service fees between the U.S. and China marks a positive step toward improving trade relations and easing maritime tensions. While key implementation details are still pending, this temporary agreement reflects both nations’ willingness to cooperate and stabilize global shipping routes. The coming months will reveal how effectively the suspension supports maritime trade and fosters longer-term collaboration.