A Victory for Our Customers
Seaboard Marine is pleased to share that the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has exempted the Chinese-built vessels operated by Seaboard Marine, an American-owned company, from the proposed Section 301 port call fees.
This outcome is significant for our customers, communities, and partners across the Americas and the Caribbean. The proposed policy would have added up to $1,000,000 per U.S. port call, threatening to disrupt trade and the movement of essential goods. Thanks to strong regional engagement, the USTR recognized the need to safeguard the critical flow of commerce by exempting vessels operated by carriers like Seaboard Marine.
Thank You to Our Customers
We sincerely thank the many customers, business associations, and regional leaders who contacted officials and submitted comments to the USTR, highlighting the proposed surcharges’ unintended consequences.
Your voices made a difference. The USTR acknowledged the overwhelming support for protecting vital trade links throughout the hemisphere.
U.S.-Owned – A Distinct Advantage
This exemption reflects the strength of our U.S. ownership and our longstanding commitment to maritime commerce. With over four decades of experience and operations across multiple U.S. ports, Seaboard Marine is a dependable bridge between the United States and its trading partners in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Looking Ahead
Seaboard Marine remains committed to providing efficient, reliable service. We will continue working with officials and stakeholders to support policies that promote U.S. industrial priorities and the economic vitality of the Western Hemisphere.
Please contact your Seaboard Marine representative with questions about this advisory or how it may benefit your business.