On March 12, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) received a petition from various labor unions addressing China's policies concerning critical maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors. The petition seeks relief from alleged unfair trade practices under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 - the same statute that has been used to address other unfair trade allegations resulting in the current special tariffs assessed against China.
Section 301 investigations allow the United States to respond to unreasonable or discriminatory foreign government practices that burden or restrict U.S. commerce. Based on the filing of this petition, the USTR shall review the allegations and decide whether to initiate a full investigation within 45 days. Should the investigation occur and negative findings result, additional tariffs and other remedies may be implemented which could impact a wide range of goods that may or may not relate to the maritime, shipbuilding, and logistics sectors.
A copy of the petition can be accessed here. Should you have any questions concerning the new USTR investigation, please contact one of the trade professionals here.