Negotiations Continue Between ILWU Local 26 and PMA, New Deadline November 20
Negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26 and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) continue as the two groups agree to another extension. Initially the union, which represents terminal security personnel at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, threatened to strike beginning November 1. This deadline was previously extended to November 4, though talks continued until November 6 without strike. On November 6, the two groups agreed to a longer extension, making the new deadline for the possible strike 12 PM PT on November 20. CIS will keep an eye on the situation and update on further developments.
Deadline for Section 301 Investigation into Vietnam Postponed Until February
The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative has announced a three-month delay in the deadline for completing the Section 301 investigation into Vietnam’s persistent failure to resolve longstanding concerns regarding intellectual property. The final determination was originally due on November 29, 2026, and has now been extended until February 28, 2027. The reason given for the extension is that the issues are complex and complicated and that additional time is needed for investigation.
USTR Extends Suspension of Section 301 China Ship Tax and Section 301 China Exclusions
On November 9, the U.S. Trade Representative published two Federal Register notices extending the suspension of the Section 301 China Ship Tax and extending the use of the Section 301 China Exclusions through January 9, 2027. Previously it was announced that the U.S. and China had extended their trade truce through January 9, but it was unclear what, if any, action would be taken regarding extending the suspension and exclusions. CIS will continue to monitor the U.S. and China trade negotiations and will advise of any further changes.