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August 2024

   
   

Industry News

Vessel on the Panama Canal

Panama Canal raises draught for Neo-Panamax locks

On August 5, the Panama Canal Authority raised the maximum authorized draught for Neo-Panamax vessels to 14.94 meters (49 ft) and increased daily transits from 34 to 35, in response to current and projected water levels in Gatun Lake. This follows previous increases, with the canal nearing its design limits of 36 daily transits and a 15.24-meter (50 ft) draught for Neo-Panamax locks.

     
Beilun Port

Ningbo explosion closes port, adds to worsening Asian bottlenecks

The port of Ningbo has been closed indefinitely following a massive explosion aboard a Yang Ming vessel exacerbating existing bottlenecks on major Asian export trade lanes. The explosion, caused by a container loaded with dangerous goods, occurred on the YM Mobility at Ningbo's Beilun terminal. This closure, alongside delays at other major Asian ports such as Shanghai and Hong Kong, is expected to worsen schedule disruptions during peak import demand in the US and Europe. The situation adds pressure on already congested ports in North Europe, with delays expected to continue worsening through the year.

     
Port of Long Beach

Ocean carriers face new FMC rules on dealing with US exporters

The US Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has issued new regulations requiring ocean carriers to document their export policies annually, detailing pricing, services, routes, and equipment for US exports. These rules respond to complaints that carriers often prioritize returning empty containers to Asia over accommodating US exports. The FMC can now investigate instances where carriers may unreasonably refuse export cargo, and sudden schedule changes may also be scrutinized. While the export policy rule is pending approval, other regulations will take effect 60 days after their publication in the Federal Register.

     
   

Customs Brokerage News

CBP

Customs User Fee Changes

As of October 1, 2024, several customs user fees will be updated according to the General Notice (89 FR 59126) published on July 22, 2024, in compliance with the FAST Act. Key changes include:


1. Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF):

   - Ad valorem rate remains at 0.3464%
   - Minimum fee rises from $31.67 to $32.71
   - Maximum fee increases from $614.35 to $634.62

2. Surcharge for Manual, Formal Entry/Release: $3.93

3. Fee for Informal Entry/Release (automated): $2.62

4. Express Consignment Carrier/Centralized Hub Facility Fee: $1.31 per individual waybill/bill of lading

5. Passenger Arrival Fees:
   - Commercial Vessel or Aircraft: $7.20 per passenger
   - Passenger Arrival from Exempt Areas: $2.53 per passenger

6. Commercial Truck Arrival Fee: $7.20 (note: the total Single Crossing Fee including USDA’s $12.40 AQI fee is $19.60; after 18 crossings, only the $12.40 AQI fee is required)

7. Dutiable Mail Fee: $7.20


     

U.S. delays tariff increases on Chinese imports

The U.S. Trade Representative’s office announced a delay in implementing steep tariff increases on a range of Chinese imports, including electric vehicles, batteries, and medical products. Originally set for August 1, the tariffs will be postponed by at least two weeks as over 1,100 comments from stakeholders are reviewed. The proposed tariffs, part of a broader strategy to protect U.S. industries and jobs from inexpensive Chinese imports, include significant increases on EVs, semiconductors, and medical equipment. The USTR will finalize its decision in mid-August, with the tariffs expected to take effect approximately two weeks after the announcement.

     
   
   

Eastern News

Eastern Supports RMHC-CNI at Annual Golf Classic

Eastern proudly supports Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) and recently volunteered at their Annual Golf Classic. Held on July 17, 2024, at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, the event featured 18 holes of golf, contests, a specialty lunch, and a silent auction. More than just a sporting event, it supports families in need during medical crises, aligning with Eastern’s values of community support. Eastern is honored to contribute to such a noble cause and eagerly anticipates continuing its support for RMHC-CNI in the future.

     
   
   
   

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