Inquiry re Chinese Shipping Restrictions

The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) issued a Notice of Inquiry regarding the current status of shipping in the U.S. trade with the People’s Republic of China and the effects of the U.S.-China bilateral Maritime Agreement signed on December 8, 2003. Specifically, the Commission seeks information on whether anticipated improvements in the ability of non-Chinese ocean carriers and non-vessel-operating common carriers to conduct operations in the U.S. trade with China have occurred. Interested parties, including shippers, ocean transportation intermediaries, vessel operators and others in the shipping industry, are invited to comment. Comments should be submitted by June 1, 2004. Docket No. 98-14 (HK Law).