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The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) opened its public comment period this week asking that businesses impacted by Section 301 tariffs - which impact more than 300 commonly used components, materials, and parts used in the marine manufacturing process - submit comment detailing the need for exclusions from these tariffs. The comment period will remain open through January 17, 2023. All marine businesses impacted by 301 tariffs are encouraged to submit comment here.

For the past two years, the Biden administration has been reviewing and developing its policies for realigning the U.S.-China trade relationship. The NMMA has urged the administration to reinstate all exclusions and reopen the exclusions process for every imported product currently impacted by Section 301 tariffs. The team will continue meeting with the administration to discuss the impact these tariffs and other retaliatory tariffs have had on the marine industry, in an effort to secure relief for marine businesses.

The Federal Register notice released by USTR provides detailed instructions and questions for which USTR is seeking answers, including how the tariffs have impacted U.S. businesses and American consumers. In the weeks to come, the NMMA will submit comments highlighting the impact the tariffs have had on the industry and urge the administration to reinstate all exclusions and expand the exclusion process to allow more businesses an ability to participate.

NMMA stands ready to help all stakeholders navigate this public comment process and will submit letters in support of requests. If your business has been impacted by Section 301 tariffs on products imported from China, please contact NMMA director of federal government relations, Clay Crabtree at [email protected].