Groups like the National Corn Growers Association are asking the Trump administration to grant exemptions on bulk shipments for America’s commodity groups as it considers implementing fees on Chinese vessels. The goal is to level the playing field between U.S. and Chinese shipbuilders.
“Adding further financial strain through higher transportation costs will bring instability for our members, particularly those who depend on global export markets to remain competitive,” says NCGA President Kenneth Hartman Jr.
The Renewable Fuels Association sent a letter to the U.S. Trade Representative’s Office also seeking an exemption for agricultural exports from both newly proposed fees on Chinese vessels and graduated sourcing requirements for U.S.-built and flagged vessels. The group wants the exemptions in place until U.S. ship production can meet the requirements to keep U.S. agriculture competitive in the global market.
“Efficient and reliable export transportation is critical to agricultural viability,” says RFA President Geoff Cooper.
