The US Administration has delayed its final determination on new tariffs, including the 25% tariff on Chinese STS cranes.
The Office of the US Trade Representative has announced that it is still working through public comments for its “Proposed Modifications to China 301 Actions” investigation. This includes the proposed 25% tariff on Chinese STS cranes that is widely opposed by US ports and terminal operators.
A decision was expected on or before 1 August 2024 but has now been delayed. “In response to the May 28 Notice, USTR received more than 1,100 comments from the public. In consultation with the Section 301 committee, USTR continues to review all comments and expects its final determination will now be issued in August 2024. USTR expects that the modifications slated for 2024 will take effect approximately two weeks after it makes the final determination public.”
If the USTR decides to implement the tariff on STS cranes as proposed, the delay is likely long enough for the Port of Houston to take delivery of three new ZPMC STS cranes before a new tariff takes effect. The cranes are due to be delivered in August.
