New BIMCO Clause Addresses USTR Actions

The Documentary Committee of BIMCO adopted a standard clause aimed at addressing contractual uncertainties that may arise from the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) Notice of Actions to impose fees on Chinese-related ships calling US ports.

A BIMCO subcommittee comprising legal and commercial experts began working on the clause at the start of June, prioritizing its development as the USTR announced actions to impose fees on ships calling at US ports which are Chinese-built or have Chinese owners or operators.

“It has been a priority to engage experts representing different segments of the industry when developing the clause in a short space of time. The USTR actions will present complex challenges, and the subcommittee has carefully discussed how best to arrive at a result that will help the industry minimise disputes,” says Stinne Taiger Ivø, Deputy Secretary General & Director of Contracts at BIMCO.

“We anticipate that many of the current uncertainties surrounding the enabling provisions to give the USTR Notice its intended effect will be resolved in the months following the implementation of the USTR fees. As more experience is gained, reviewing the clause to ensure it continues to meet our high standards and the industry's needs will be