Ports Group Hails Agreement to Temporarily Delay Tariffs Increase

The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) … the unified and recognized voice of America’s seaports … today is hailing the announcement over the weekend that trade talks between the United States and China have resulted in an agreement for the U.S. to hold off further tariff increases on Chinese products for 90 days while the two nations work on details of a longer-term trade accord.

AAPA is a member of Americans for Free Trade, a broad coalition of American businesses, trade organizations, and workers united against tariffs. In a joint statement with Farmers for Free Trade and Tariffs Hurt the Heartland, the coalition’s campaign spokesman and former Congressman Charles Boustany issued the following statement:

"Agreeing not to raise tariffs on American businesses, farmers and consumers is an encouraging first step. These tariffs are taxes that Americans pay, and avoiding a massive tax increase on January 1st is welcome news that must be followed up by rolling back the tariffs currently in place.”

AAPA President and CEO Kurt Nagle said the announcement postponing the previously-planned start date for tariffs to increase from 10 percent to 25 percent is encouraging news and evidence that progress is being made in trade negotiations.

“With today’s worldwide supply chain,” said Mr. Nagle, “American manufacturers, farmers and businesses rely on our nation’s ports to handle the raw materials and semi-finished components needed for domestic production of goods, including goods made here for export. Not only do high import tariffs cost Americans more to purchase the things they need and want on a daily basis, reciprocal trade sanctions from our trading partners can increase the cost and thereby reduce demand for U.S. exports, such as agricultural products, vehicles, machinery and mineral fuels.”  

He added: “Activities at our ports support over 23 million American jobs. For every $1 billion in exports shipped through U.S. seaports, 15,000 jobs are created. With these reasons in mind, AAPA commends the decision to temporarily suspend another tariffs increase, and supports and encourages steps focused on expanding exports rather than creating new import restrictions.”