from proposed fees on China-built vessels. CPSO Chairman Gervase Warner praised the move as a major win for the region, preventing what could have been severe economic disruption.

The original USTR proposal—part of broader measures responding to China's alleged targeting of the maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors—would have imposed port fees exceeding US$1 million per U.S. port call for China-built vessels. This would have significantly increased the cost of shipping between the Caribbean and the United States, leading to inflation, shortages, delays, and supply chain instability across CARICOM economies.

Warner stated that the April 17 USTR determination was “tremendously beneficial” and credited the outcome to effective collaboration between CARICOM governments, private sector stakeholders, and regional partners. He made special mention of the leadership of CARICOM Heads of Government, particularly Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley of Barbados, whose advocacy during high-level engagements with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and in direct communication with President Donald Trump played a pivotal role.

The CPSO Secretariat, led by economist Patrick Antoine, submitted detailed economic analysis and oral testimony to the USTR. Their efforts were supported by a region-wide mobilization of stakeholders, with over 700 participants joining the first coordination call on March 18, 2025. Two follow-up consultations were held to unify the Caribbean’s position, marking what Warner described as “proud moments for the regional private sector.”

The USTR’s final determination includes several exemptions that closely reflect CPSO’s advocacy:

Short sea shipping exemption: Vessels operating within 2,000 nautical miles between CARICOM countries and the U.S. mainland are exempt. (CPSO had advocated for a 2,750-nautical-mile threshold but finds the determination acceptable.

Smaller vessels exemption: Ships under 55,000 deadweight tons and fewer than 4,000 TEUs are exempt. (CPSO had requested a 4,999 TEU threshold.

Specialized cargo exemption: Vessels carrying energy or chemical products that may exceed 55,000 tons are exempt if built for bulk transport of such goods. The USTR allows exemptions for vessels with individual bulk capacities of up to 80,000 deadweight tons.

Warner credited several individuals and organizations for their roles in the successful outcome. He reserved special thanks for Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett of the U.S. Virgin Islands, who participated in CPSO briefings and raised the matter at the U.S. House Ways and Means Committee hearings. “The openness and receptiveness of the USTR and its panel to the Caribbean’s unique concerns were commendable,” Warner said. “This is a victory for collective action and regional unity.”