US postpones ‘million-dollar’ China ship tax until January

The decision gives Washington and Beijing additional time to negotiate over Chinese policies affecting the maritime, logistics and shipbuilding industries.

The Office of the United States Trade Representative said the extension took effect November 9 and runs through 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on January 9. It follows a one-year suspension that began November 10, 2025, under a trade agreement announced by President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The pause also continues to cover additional duties on Chinese ship-to-shore cranes and other cargo-handling equipment specified in the agency’s earlier action.

China also extended its suspension of reciprocal port fees on U.S.-linked vessels until January 10.

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